Education minister says literacy key to social inclusion

Literacy as an important element in the field of social inclusion, the education minister Evarist Bartolo said this morning, adding that the national literacy strategy includes concrete measures which will provide everybody the opportunity to obtain the skills required to participate fully in society.

The overall purpose of the National Literacy Strategy for All is to promote and enhance lifelong and lifewide, high quality literacy practices among children, youths, adults, third country nationals and persons with learning difficulties.

During a press conference held this morning in Sliema, education minister Evarist Bartolo explained that an improvement in literacy levels would ensure that “everybody feels included in Maltese society.”

The policy strives to improve literacy outcomes, resulting in inclusive practices, higher educational qualifications, and better job prospects.

Bartolo said that the policy includes over 100 measures which are aimed at providing children, youths and adults with the opportunity to acquire the competencies required for them to lead fulfilling lives.

“Literacy and the acquisition of literacy are complex issues which require a strong commitment from parents, caregivers, highly dedicated professionals and society at large.”

The strategy adopts a lifelong perspective, with a clear priority on the first and early years, which have a heavy influence on children’s later development,

The plan also promotes lifewide and intergenerational dimensions by supporting the crucial roles of the family and the community in supporting the literacy development of each child.

The promotion of a literate community is among the measures being proposed. Another key measure is the promotion of bilingualism and biliteracy in Maltese and English.

Balanced literacy also plays an important part in the strategy, with measures aimed at ensuring that the technical aspects of reading and writing are taught in the context of making meaning through text.

The strategy also promotes an increase in reading time, the use of new technologies, research and literacy awareness.