International Literacy Day 2024: Embracing Multilingual Education for a Brighter Future in Kenya and Africa

International Literacy Day (ILD), celebrated on September 8, emphasizes the significance of literacy as a fundamental human right and a foundation for peace, development, and social inclusion. It was established by UNESCO in 1966 and the first celebration took place in 1967. The theme for 2024, "Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace," underscores the importance of multilingualism in fostering communication and understanding among diverse cultures. This theme is particularly relevant in Kenya and across Africa, where linguistic diversity presents both challenges and opportunities for educational advancement.

In Kenya, the adult literacy rate has risen to approximately 81% as of 2021, reflecting significant progress in educational initiatives. However, the situation remains complex, particularly in rural areas where access to quality education is limited. In Africa, the challenges are more pronounced, with about 763 million adults and young people globally lacking basic literacy skills, a significant portion of whom reside in sub-Saharan Africa. Notably, 8 out of 10 children in Africa begin school in a language that differs from their mother tongue, which creates barriers to effective learning. Research indicates that students educated in their mother tongue are 14% more likely to read with understanding by the end of primary school compared to those who are not. In South Africa, for example, students taught in their mother tongue achieved an average score of 69%, while those learning in a second language scored only 32%. These statistics highlight the urgent need for educational reforms that prioritize multilingual education.

Several countries in Africa are making strides in promoting multilingual education. For instance, Ethiopia has implemented a successful mother-tongue education policy, allowing students to learn in their native languages during the early years of schooling. This approach has improved literacy rates and educational outcomes significantly. Similarly, Tanzania has adopted a bilingual education model that incorporates both Kiswahili and English, helping students transition smoothly into higher education while maintaining their cultural identity. In Kenya, initiatives such as the Primary Math and Reading Initiative (PRIMR) have been instrumental in enhancing literacy through the use of local languages, demonstrating the effectiveness of mother-tongue instruction.

To further enhance the theme of multilingual education in Kenya and Africa, several actions must be taken. First, governments should develop and implement policies that support mother-tongue instruction from early childhood, ensuring that local languages are used as mediums of instruction in schools. This includes mapping local languages and creating curricula that begin instruction in languages students understand before transitioning to additional languages.

Second, there is a pressing need to recruit and train teachers proficient in local languages, with training programs focusing on multilingual-sensitive pedagogy that accommodates diverse linguistic backgrounds. Engaging parents and community members is also crucial; programs should be established to support parents, especially those who are non-literate, in fostering literacy skills at home and understanding the value of local languages.

Additionally, leveraging technology and partnerships with digital platforms can expand access to teaching materials in local languages, including the development of digital resources tailored to multilingual learners. Finally, implementing assessments designed to evaluate the learning outcomes of multilingual learners is essential for identifying effective practices and areas needing improvement.

International Literacy Day 2024 provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress made in literacy while acknowledging the challenges that persist. By promoting multilingual education, we can work towards a future where literacy serves as a bridge to mutual understanding and peace. This commitment is vital for the development of inclusive and equitable societies in Kenya and across Africa, ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to thrive in their educational journeys.