In a tech-driven world, literacy goes beyond ability to read and write, says chief advisor

He says job-oriented and skill-based education is critical to competing in the modern world

Chief Advisor Muhammad Yunus says the idea of literacy in a technology-driven world goes beyond the ability to read and write.

“Learning online and finding solutions to everyday problems are all part of effective literacy,” he said in a message on Sunday marking International Literacy Day, observed on Sept 8.

“Literacy is an essential element for the development and progress of a nation,” Yunus said.

“In this modern technology-dependent world, the concept of literacy is not limited to reading and writing alone, but it has been combined with digital knowledge, information literacy skills and the ability to participate in technology-based education. Now finding information, analysing it, learning online and finding solutions to everyday problems are all part of effective literacy.”

This year’s theme for International Literacy Day is “Promoting Literacy in a Digital Era”.

“Those who are lagging behind in the use of information technology are not only deprived of education, but are also isolated from the mainstream of society and economy,” Yunus said.

“In this context, I think this year’s theme is timely and very significant.”

He added that job-oriented and skill-based education is critical to competing in the modern world.

“Therefore, our education system must be developed in such a way that, along with traditional education, opportunities to acquire digital skills are open to everyone, especially women, children, marginalised communities and people with special needs,” he said.

“We all have to work together to bring about digital training for teachers, necessary technology in the hands of students and a change in the attitude of parents,” he added.

Yunus, the head of the interim government, said it was working to rebuild Bangladesh after the July Uprising.

“Let us work towards building a Bangladesh where a knowledge-based, inclusive and humane society will be built through the combined power of technology and literacy,” he said.

In his message, he also wished success for the programmes undertaken on the occasion of International Literacy Day 2025.