“Lasting peace depends on the development of literate citizenship and access to education for all. Amidst political upheaval and escalating violence in many parts of the world, literacy must be a priority in the peace-building agenda of all nations.” – “For International Literacy Day, UN flags key role of reading and writing in global peace”

Observed annually on September 8th, International Literacy Day, set in place by the United Nations, is a day to commemorate and pay special focus to the power of literacy in creating peace, opportunity, and change in the world.

Our DIL programs focus on educating children and providing literacy programs through which the students have access to the most opportunities as possible. In 2011 alone, more than 66,000 library books were provided. Not only are books provided but specialized teacher training engages students in activities to promote literacy and critical thinking skills. Read here about how DIL students in a reportage workshop in Orangi used the power of their newfound skills to tell the story of their slum and violence. Read here about how DIL students run towards newly donated books that provide them with enriching content. Join here to watch a live celebration of International Literacy Day through All Children Reading.

On this day, how will you celebrate? What has literacy done for you and those around you? If you’d like to share those stories, DIL has partnered with the Global Partnership for Education for the “Reading Changed My Life” contest – click here for more details.