Sept 2015 DG Bulletin Message
Posted by Jim Goit
on Aug 29, 2015
Can you imagine what it must be like not to be able to read to your children or grandchildren? Most of us take the skill so much for granted. Yet.. Worldwide, more than 775 million people over the age of 15 are illiterate and 67 million children have no access to education.
In our own district, the 2003 International Adult Literacy Skills Survey (IALSS) data showed that more than half of adults living in the Atlantic region have below level 3 literacy and/or numeracy skills (minimum skills level suitable for coping with the demands of everyday life and work in a complex, advanced society) and would have difficulty meeting the challenges of everyday life and work. What can Rotary do to help this situation?
Rotarians support educational projects that provide technology, teacher training, vocational training teams, student meal programs, and low-cost textbooks to communities. The goal is to strengthen the capacity of communities to support basic education and literacy, reduce gender disparity in education, and increase adult literacy.
There are lots of examples of great education and literacy projects in our District. Several Clubs in PEI are active with the excellent STRIVE (Students Taking Renewed Interest in the Value of Education) program that helps young people reengage with education and prepare with life. There are Rotary Clubs that are involved in Library Read Along or Adopt a Library projects. The Summerside Rotary Club is helping build a new Learning Centre. Some clubs give out dictionaries to elementary students. The Rotary Club of St. Pierre et Miquelon sponsors a unique in-school grammar bee. Lots of our clubs have scholarships and some Clubs send books and school supplies overseas.
Whatever it takes, Rotarians are there. Helping those who are disadvantaged.
Check out this video on how Rotary is helping with a school for the deaf in Brazil and do your part for basic education and Literacy month.