ADRA's Impact in Bangladesh: Empowering Communities Through Literacy

International Literacy Day (ILD) is celebrated on September 8th to highlight the importance of literacy for a better society.

Literacy is the foundation for a culture of peace. It allows people to gain knowledge, skills, values, attitudes, and behaviors that foster respect for equality and non-discrimination, the rule of law, solidarity, justice, diversity, and tolerance.

This year, ILD will be celebrated under the theme of "Promoting multilingual education: Literacy for mutual understanding and peace". 

For a decade, ADRA in Bangladesh has been directing its educational initiatives intending to enhance the educational status and health of children residing in slums. ADRA places a particular emphasis on the education of children, with a particular focus on those from underprivileged backgrounds living in slums across the country. ADRA has established a child education center in Bangladesh intending to provide underprivileged children in slum areas with the opportunity to receive a basic education.

Additionally, ADRA in Bangladesh emphasizes the adult literacy program, which provides parents with the opportunity to gain fundamental literacy skills at the education center. In addition, ADRA provides for the educational needs of slum children, preparing them to enroll in government primary schools.

The acquisition of knowledge and skills facilitates the development of a sense of dignity and self-worth in children. Parents are engaged in their children's development, receive awareness of child rights and social issues, and are encouraged to discover their vocational skills.  The project provides instruction in basic literacy for mothers and facilitates the development of caregivers' capacity in various domains.

As part of the education project, mothers and children receive medical consultations. A child specialist and gynecologist are engaged in specific projects to address child and maternal health concerns. The project offers basic medication through check-ups and consultations with the doctor at the project.

On International Literacy Day, we remember that literacy is a journey. It requires effort and commitment from everyone. It asks governments, schools, groups, and businesses to work together and come up with new ways to teach reading that help everyone, especially those who are left out.