When you are able to speak, you are able to survive but when you can also read and write, you are equipped for lifetime to survive but with dignity and respect. Literacy throws open many doors to the world and gives ample opportunities to all individuals to lead better life. It is the first step to avoid exploitation of humans in any form. With the entire world available on your fingertips through mobile phones, ipads, tablets, etc. there is plenty to feed the brain if only one is literate.

But, the meaning of literacy has changed over the time. Today, in this fast-paced world where there are opportunities like never before, just being able to read and write does not suffice. Literacy holds a broader meaning today and includes being aware of your rights, raising your voice against injustice, inequality and exploitation. Because, even after the continuous efforts for literacy and awareness, millions of people still stand locked out of that door to the world.

So, joining the world in celebrating International Literacy Day, students of Global Indian International School Ahmedabad spread the message of literacy rather beautifully. The class 5 students performed a skit and caught their fellow-mates’ attention throughout where the moral of the story was that literacy is the first step to progress. The students also performed a foot-tapping song on literacy. These young students pledged to come forward and teach literacy every weekend to the less-privileged children in their vicinity. There was a special assembly to mark the day wherein the teachers and principal emphasized on the pros of literacy and education.

The students concluded the assembly with a strong message that the learned people of our country should come forward and reach out to those not so privileged people living in remote villages where literacy is nil. Because literacy is a human right and it opens the door to opportunities.