Literacy and its benefits

Literacy literally means the ability to read and write a short and simple text. In addition, it generally
encompasses "numeracy", literally, that means the ability to perform basic mathematical calculations,
for instance, addition, subtraction, measurement, etc. However, this term is so inclusive and
comprehensive in itself. So let us explain this term with the light of Islam at first.

Islam gives an extremely important perspective on literacy. As it is mentioned in the first revelation of
holy Quran: “Read! In the Name of your Lord, Who has created (all that exists). He has created man
from a clot (a piece of thick coagulated blood). Read! And your Lord is the Most Generous, Who has
taught by the pen, He has taught man that which he knew not.” (Quran 96:1-5). Prophet Muhammad
SAW did not know how to read, but he did understand and know the insights and importance of literacy.
We as Muslims fervently believe that the Quranic words are the sacred words of Allah, and that it is
worthwhile for us to keep abreast of those words and abide by what they mean. At the outset of the
divine revelations that came time after time, the companions of prophet were first to jot down the
literal words of Allah on animal skins, bone, bark and even stones. A new era of literacy ushered in now.

Frederick Douglass, an American social reformer, said, “Once you learn to read, you will forever be free."
Given that, it is concluded, therefore, that literacy is a tool or instrument for achieving the basic rights.

With understanding that literacy is important; essentially, then, it leads to national welfare by playing a
pivotal role in alleviation of poverty, economic growth and stability, democracy promotion, decrease in
crimes, a few health issues (as people will have useful information about things to use) and what not.

Literacy and numeracy skills will enable a person to allocate the resources efficiently and effectively,
think critically and rationally to take rational decisions and become civilized. Yet above and beyond all
this, it will inculcate him or her with moral values and as a result, he or she will behave morally and
socially good. Resultantly, it does lead to an individual well-being.

In Pakistan's context, a person who can, with understanding, read a short and simple statement from a
magazine or newspaper and write a simple letter is literate. According to the recent Economic Survey of
Pakistan, the literacy rate dwindled from 60 percent to 58 percent. This literacy rate is too low. The main
reason behind this is the very low contribution of budget allocation to the education department.
Furthermore, the income level of masses contributes significantly to declining literacy rate in Pakistan.

There are countries with literacy rate above 90% such as Finland, Switzerland, Norway, etc.; some of
them have the similar criteria for calculating literacy rate to that of Pakistan. These countries have
known the importance of literacy, and therefore, spend the maximum portion of their GDP on providing
masses with education. As a result, these countries are highly developed and extremely prosperous.
Thus, it can be concluded that literacy serves as the backbone for individual well and that it is an added
bonus for the national development. No nation would survive if it is deprived of literacy.

Name: Aafaque Ali

Qualification: BS Accounting and Finance, 3rd Semester

University: Sukkur IBA University.

Emali # aafaque.bsaf18@iba-suk.edu.pk

Mobile No. 03043875647

(Note: I am not a member of Read Pakistan).

Total Word Counts 586 including my introduction.

Thank you!