Rukmini rallies for Equal Education Rights while Celebrating Int'l Literacy Day

On Sept. 8th, the world celebrated International Literacy Day. Created in 1965 by UNESCO, it emphasizes the importance of literacy in the advancement of education in marginalized populations. Being able to read and write empowers individuals to express themselves in creative and innovative ways. In Nepal, women do not have easy access to education and as a result, many stay illiterate. Providing them opportunities to read and write gives them the tools to enact social change and demand for equal rights.

Organized by the Ministry of Education and the Non-Formal Education Center (NFEC), International Literacy day was celebrated at Rastriya Pragya Pratisthan in Kathmandu. Rukmini Foundation participated in this program in a joint effort with Shikharapur Community Learning Center, Shikharapur Open School, Sheshnarayan Female School, Shikaharapur Sustainable Farmers’ School, and Shikharapur Community School.

The attendees at International Literacy Day, Nepal.

Over 70 people attended this event including Rukmini Scholars, young children from various schools, parents from lower-income backgrounds, youth volunteers, and employees from many local organizations. The program began with a rally in which participants carried pamphlets and posters around the premises to portray the importance of education. They advocated for women to have equal education rights, for youths to have opportunities to develop quality skills, and for the development of a community learning center.

Participants marched to spread awareness about the importance of education for women and youth.

The event was recognized by the Hon. Education Minister, Chitralekha Yadav. During the program, many books published by the Department of Education and NFEC were celebrated. Schools and universities that contributed greatly to the education center were honored with award certificates, medals, and cash prizes. It was especially wonderful to see so many students from public schools participating; this inspired many other children to view literacy as a tool for growth.

Participants of Shikharapur Open School.

This program is especially meaningful because it calls for the importance of education for people who do not normally have access to it. As a country, Nepal is behind many others in the education sector. The statistics are worse for Nepali women. At the program, Rukmini Foundation staff and its Scholars were able to spread the message of girl’s education and empowerment.