National Skills University Islamabad and Save Our Society (SOS) Foundation Jointly Celebrate International Literacy Day

The National Skills University Islamabad (NSU) and the Save Our Society (SOS) Foundation jointly commemorated International Literacy Day (ILD), bringing together a diverse group of educators, thought leaders, and visionaries. This year, ILD is being celebrated under the theme  "Promoting multilingual education: Literacy for mutual understanding and peace." 

The event began with a solemn national anthem, followed by Mr. Muhammad Bin Qasim, a lecturer at NSU, reciting verses from the Holy Quran. Then, prominent figures, including NSU Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar, SOS Foundation CEO Dr. Shaista Sohail, and keynote speaker Prof. Dr. Saleem Mazhar, Director General of the National Language Authority. Also among the esteemed speakers was Dr. Manzoor H. Soomro, Chairman of the Indus Cultural Forum, who also served as President of the ECO Science Foundation (ECOSF).

 The Literacy Imperative: A National and Global Perspective

Dr. Shaista Sohail, CEO of SOS, who has previously served in several important governmental positions, including Executive Director of the Higher Education Commission of Pakistan, laid the groundwork for the seminar by presenting the broader context of literacy as a global and national challenge. Referring to Pakistan's troubling literacy statistics, where the country ranks 113th out of 120 nations according to UNESCO, Dr. Sohail highlighted the urgent need for action, given the stagnation of the national literacy rate at around 60% for years. While education is a fundamental right enshrined in Article 25-A of Pakistan's Constitution, Dr. Sohail emphasized that the current approach needs to be revised to meet the demands of a rapidly changing world.

Her proposal was bold yet practical: establishing Literacy Boards at the federal, provincial, and district levels to provide a second chance for those who missed formal education. This initiative, she argued, could dramatically increase literacy rates, offering a ray of hope in the face of the current challenges. By creating pathways for school dropouts and adults to study privately, a simple and affordable certification system, coupled with ethics and values education, would equip individuals with the tools to improve their socioeconomic standing and engage with the growing world of digital technology.

 National Skills University Islamabad: Leading by Examples

The NSU, a leading institution in Pakistan, is recognized as a modern, skills-based education champion. Under the leadership of Founding Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Muhammad Mukhtar, it continues to empower Pakistani youth with contemporary skills. In his eloquent address, Prof. Mukhtar underscored the importance of collective responsibility in addressing the education crisis. "We must recognize that education is not solely the state's responsibility. Instead, each individual has to play their role. He advised that every educated person must support and sponsor the cause of enhancing literacy in the country. It should be more like a community effort.

Prof. Mukhtar also praised the efforts of the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training to create conducive environments in schools to attract out-of-school children. He particularly mentioned the recent initiatives by the Federal Secretary, Mr. Mohyuddin A Wani, to support school educational programs in Islamabad and its peripheries.

Literacy in the Digital Age: Rethinking Definition

In his keynote address, Prof Dr Mohammad Saleem Mazhar, Director General of the National Language Authority, offered a thought-provoking perspective on the complexities of knowledge. According to him, we must be cautious as knowledge acquired by a person can be used both for the benefit of humanity and, unfortunately, in certain instances, to harm people. Prof. Mazhar proposed a balanced approach to educational programs and holistic ethical education that equips individuals with technical skills and the wisdom to use knowledge for the benefit of humanity.

The guest speaker, Dr. Manzoor Soomro, introduced an innovative idea: revising the definition of literacy to include digital literacy. According to him, illiterate people use digital equipment through signs like WhatsApp and other means. Despite being illiterate, these people are adept at using mobile phones and symbols to communicate. Dr. Soomro suggested that the traditional notions of literacy must evolve with the times. His forward-thinking approach struck a chord with the audience, many of whom agreed that modern literacy must encompass digital competencies in a world increasingly reliant on technology.

 A Unified Vision for Change

Continued collaboration between the SOS Foundation and NSU demonstrates the power of partnerships in addressing national challenges. Dr. Shaista Sohial's vision of an inclusive, community-driven approach to literacy, supported by Prof. Mukhtar's leadership at NSU, offers a tangible way forward. The success of this seminar reflects the critical role institutions like the National Skills University Islamabad play in supporting literacy efforts with like-minded collaborating partners.