Why it is necessary to be literated in society?
Answers
It can enhance cultural diversity through literacy programmes in minority languages and lead to lower birth rates as a result of increased education. It can also confer personal benefits such as increased self-esteem, confidence and empowerment.
But the benefits of literacy ensue only when broader rights and development frameworks are in place and operating effectively. Individual benefits, for instance, are received only when written material is available to the newly literate person.
Literacy can lead to increased political participation and contribute to the quality of public policies and democracy. The relationship between education and political participation is well established. Educated people are more likely to vote and voice more tolerant attitudes and democratic values.
Literacy has the potential to be advantageous for ethnic groups. It may allow disadvantaged minorities to “catch up” with initially advanced ethnic groups.
Women's education can lead to significant social development. Decreased fertility rates and lower infant mortality rates, and lower maternal mortality rates are some of the most notable social benefits. Closing the gender gap in education helps to promote gender equality. It ensures equal rights and opportunities for people regardless of gender.
Women's education has cognitive benefits for women which helps to improve the quality of their life. For instance educated women are better able to make decisions related to health, both for themselves and their children.
There are also benefits relating to the woman’s role in the household. Educated women experience less domestic violence, are more involved in the decision-making process of the family. When women play a more active role in the family it brings about social benefits for family members. In a household where the mother is educated, children and especially girls are more likely to attend school.
There are also a number of other benefits for children associated with having an educated mother over an educated father, including higher survival rates and better nutrition. In households where a mother is not educated, adult education programs can indirectly help to teach mothers the value of education and encourage them to send their children to school. This will help to have a better and educated society.