International
International Literacy Day Highlights the Importance of Literacy and Learning
September 8th marks UNESCO’s International Literacy Day, a global initiative aimed at raising awareness about the challenges and advancements in adult and child literacy.
Since its inception in 1966, International Literacy Day has become a vital part of the United Nations’ sustainable development goals program, which was adopted in 2015.
This annual event serves to shed light on the progress being made worldwide in literacy development.
UNESCO, a key player in global literacy improvement since 1946, collaborates with governments, charities, local communities, and experts in the field to promote International Literacy Day.
Through various themes and programs, the day seeks to draw attention to literacy in all its forms within an evolving world. It recognizes that literacy encompasses more than just the ability to read and write, reflecting the diverse nature of societies today.
In addition to the global initiatives, there are also local activities taking place to celebrate and promote literacy. Between September 18th and 29th, a series of events have been organized, including school visits by local authors. Notably, Miss BVI 2023, Anika Christopher, will be participating in these school visits, engaging with students and emphasizing the importance of literacy.
International Literacy Day serves as a reminder to world leaders, influencers, and the general public of the current state of adult literacy and learning. UNESCO champions the belief that literacy is the best remedy and a fundamental right to education for all. In 2015, the United Nations adopted its Sustainable Development Goals, which aim to eradicate poverty and inequalities worldwide. Improving literacy rates is an essential component of these goals, as it plays a crucial role in empowering individuals and fostering social and economic development.
In conjunction with International Literacy Day, UNESCO also announces the prestigious International Literacy Awards. This esteemed prize recognizes excellence and innovation in literacy and skills development. Submissions for the awards focus on literacy and skills development, further contributing to the promotion of awareness regarding the importance and relevance of literacy and adult learning.
International Literacy Day serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts required to ensure that literacy and education opportunities are accessible to all individuals worldwide. By highlighting the significance of literacy and learning, this global initiative aims to inspire positive change and foster a more inclusive and equitable society.
Dame Pereira, who hails from North Sound, Virgin Gorda, has had a distinguished legal career that began when she was called to the Bar of the Virgin Islands in 1981. Rising through the ranks of the judiciary, she became a High Court Judge in 2003 and was elevated to the Court of Appeal in 2009. On October 24, 2012, she made history as the first female Chief Justice of the ECSC, a position she held with distinction until her retirement earlier this year in St. Kitts and Nevis. Her legal career has spanned over three decades, marked by numerous groundbreaking achievements and an unwavering commitment to justice.
Premier Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley of the Virgin Islands lauded Dame Pereira’s appointment in a social media post, describing it as “well-deserved” and noting her inspirational impact on the Virgin Islands community. “Your achievements inspire us all!” Premier Wheatley declared, emphasizing the pride that her accomplishments have brought to the region.
The Privy Council appointments, officially announced on August 28, also include notable figures such as Baroness Eluned Morgan MS, the First Minister of Wales, and John Swinney MS, the First Minister of Scotland.
The Privy Council remains one of the oldest government institutions in the UK, advising the sovereign on matters of state and governance.
Botswana’s Letsile Tebogo won gold in the men’s 200 meters final on Thursday, August 8, finishing with a time of 19.46 seconds, the fourth-fastest in Olympic history.
Tebogo’s victory overshadowed the struggles of American star Noah Lyles, who crossed the line in third after revealing he was battling COVID-19. Following the race, Lyles was assisted off the track in a wheelchair.
Lyles’ finish for the second consecutive Olympics left fans and competitors in shock. Despite his health struggles, Lyles managed to finish in 19.70 seconds, falling to his back in pain as he grappled with the effects of the virus that had impacted him throughout his Olympic journey.
As Lyles dealt with his medical issues, Kenny Bednarek secured silver with a time of 19.62 seconds.
Lyles’ condition became evident a night earlier when he finished second in a semifinal and headed to the medical tent without speaking to the press. Despite reassurances from his coach that he was fine, it was clear something was wrong as the final unfolded.
As the runners approached the homestretch, Lyles fell behind, unable to summon his finishing kick. What was once a reliable surge in the final stretch transformed into a push for the line, culminating in a collapse onto the purple track, marking a conclusion to his Olympic journey.
Photo: John David Mercer Photo USA Today
At just 18 years old, Adaejah Hodge has made a mark at the Paris 2024 Olympics. Competing in the 200m semifinals at the iconic Stade de France, Hodge clocked in at 22.70 seconds, securing 8th place in her heat and 17th overall in the semifinals. She becomes the first athlete from the British Virgin Islands (BVI) to advance to an Olympic semifinal in the 200m event.
“Before the race, I was talking to myself to get amped up, and it seemed to work because I actually lowered my time,” Hodge shared with the BVI Olympic Association, reflecting on her pre-race routine. “Just finding exercises like those to prepare me for the race is what I was doing. Throughout the race, I just trusted my training, trusted what I’ve been doing leading up to this point. I think I executed my race well. I’m only 18, so I’m looking forward to the next event, which is the U20s in Peru, and dominate there.”
Earlier in the day, she qualified through the Repechage event.
Reflecting on her Olympic experience, Hodge acknowledged the challenges of competing on such a grand stage. “It’s very hard to go out into the crowd — everyone screaming — so getting comfortable in the situation with all those fans and allowing myself to be Adaejah Hodge is something I will need to do,” she noted.
As the youngest competitor in her event at Paris 2024, she has set a high bar for future competitions.
The U20 Championships in Peru await, where Hodge is determined to build on her Olympic experience.
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