Editorial
Functional literacy is a term that refers to the ability to use reading, writing and calculation skills for practical purposes in everyday life. Functional literacy can help children become literate in Pakistan by providing relevant and meaningful learning opportunities linked to their needs, interests and contexts. Functional literacy can motivate children to learn by engaging them in activities related to their lives, such as health, agriculture, environment, culture, etc. For example, the Adult Female Functional Literacy Programme (AFFLP) implemented by the BUNYAD Literacy Community Council (BLCC) uses a curriculum covering family planning, nutrition, hygiene, human rights, democracy, peace and conflict resolution. These topics help women improve their quality of life and encourage them to educate their children.
Functional literacy can enhance children’s cognitive and critical thinking skills by exposing them to different sources of information and perspectives. For example, the National Literacy Programme (NLP) implemented by the National Commission for Human Development (NCHD) uses a variety of learning materials, such as newspapers, magazines, books, posters, charts, maps, etc., to help learners develop their reading comprehension, analysis and synthesis skills. These skills enable children to access and use information effectively and independently.
Functional literacy can foster children’s creativity and innovation by allowing them to express themselves in various forms and media. For example, the Progress Report of the Functional Literacy Program (FLP) published by NCHD shows that learners are encouraged to produce their own stories, poems, songs, drawings, paintings, etc., based on their experiences and imagination. These products showcase children’s talents and potential and enhance their self-confidence and self-esteem.
Functional literacy can promote children’s social and civic participation in community-based projects and activities. For example, the AFFLP engages women in community development initiatives, such as forming savings groups, establishing village libraries, organizing health camps, planting trees, etc. These initiatives help women contribute to their communities’ welfare and inspire their children to become active and responsible citizens.
Functional literacy can make children literate in Pakistan by providing them with learning opportunities that are relevant, meaningful and empowering. Functional literacy can help children acquire basic and higher-order skills essential for their personal and social development. Lastly, functional literacy can be the best tool for all out-of-school children and illiterate people.
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