Global Experts Converge for 'Spectrum of Literacy' Conference Ahead of International Literacy Day 2024

Sanjay Kumar of the DoSEL chaired the 'Spectrum of Literacy' conference in New Delhi, discussing inclusive global literacy measures. The virtual event, organized by India's Ministry of Education, set the stage for International Literacy Day 2024 with discussions on literacy's evolving definition and multilingual education under NEP 2020.

Sanjay Kumar, Secretary of the Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSEL), led the international 'Spectrum of Literacy' conference at CIET, NCERT, New Delhi, on Saturday. Organized by India's Ministry of Education, this virtual event precedes International Literacy Day 2024, which will be celebrated tomorrow at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi.

During his address, Kumar emphasized the broadened definition of literacy, which now includes Foundational Literacy, Numeracy Literacy, and critical life skills, such as digital, financial, and legal literacy. 'Literacy should help people navigate through life,' he said, highlighting ULLAS as a framework to bridge literacy gaps between urban and rural populations and between genders. He noted literacy's transformative potential when backed by robust strategies and frameworks.

Highlighting the theme 'Promoting Literacy Through Multilingualism,' Kumar cited the National Education Policy 2020's emphasis on multilingualism, stating, 'Children learn best when taught in their Mother Tongue.' He also stressed the importance of women's education for workforce representation. Archana Sharma Awasthi, Joint Secretary of DoSEL, delivered the inaugural address and presented the ULLAS-Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram, an initiative to foster adult literacy nationwide.

The conference featured expert sessions on domestic and global literacy perspectives. The first session, chaired by Dr. Amarendra P. Behera of CIET, NCERT, explored diverse literacy perspectives within India. The second session, led by Prof. T.G. Sitharam of AICTE, delivered international insights, with experts like Nicholas Jonas from Germany, Prof. Iddo Gal from Israel, and Dr. Anke Grotluschen from Germany discussing topics like adult literacy and AI's impact on literacy. Dr. John Benseman offered perspectives on 'Literacy in Social Spaces.'

The event concluded with a call to strengthen partnerships for building a literate and inclusive world, reflecting on the wide-ranging challenges and opportunities in global education. Attendees included Archana Sharma Awasthi, Prof. Dinesh Prasad Saklani of NCERT, Joyce Poan of UNESCO, and other dignitaries. The conference brought together experts, educators, policymakers, and literacy advocates to explore literacy's evolving dimensions.

(With inputs from agencies.)