Thelma Gibson Primary School celebrated ‘International Literacy Day,’ September 10, with a special assembly attended by Mrs. Ann Marie Davis of the Office of the Spouse of the Prime Minister, who gave keynote remarks.
During her visit she toured the school, with school officials and with Member of Parliament, Energy and Transport Minister JoBeth Coleby-Davis.
Mrs. Ann Marie Davis also had the opportunity to view a display of books authored by the Thelma Gibson Primary students, themselves.
Describing the significance of International Literacy Day, she told them, “concerning this special day — every 8th September, UNESCO celebrates progress in literacy at the global, regional, national and local levels.”
UNESCO, she said, “stands for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization; and the observance of literacy day began way back in 1966 so today we celebrate 59 years of observing, measuring, encouraging and promoting literacy.
“It is important that we understand that UNESCO also promotes biodiversity, gender equality and freedom of expression – all of which would not be possible in the absence of literacy.
“As we live in the digital era – that is – in the computer age dominated and heavily influenced by advanced technology, this special day gives all us – but especially our dedicated and hardworking teachers and educators — an opportunity to reflect on what literacy means today, and how literacy teaching and learning, education programmes and policies are designed, managed and monitored in this digital era.
She said, “this day gives us the opportunity to observe how our students are receiving and utilizing these educational tools, programs and policies designed to promote literacy.
“So on this literacy day, I want all of you smart students to do me a very big favour: become active participants with your parents, teacher and your church and community leaders in fostering quality education, literacy, teacher training, and digital learning.
“There is much that you can do to promote a strong national culture of literacy:
“You can read the newspapers to your parents and grandparents.
Form a book club at school and read stories to each other.
Participate in speech and elocution contests at school.
Read bedtime stories to your younger brothers and sisters who are toddlers.”
More Photo Highlights Below:
The post Mrs. Ann Marie Davis celebrates International Literacy Day at Thelma Gibson Primary School appeared first on ZNS BAHAMAS.
