Pretoria: For many individuals, everyday tasks such as withdrawing money from an ATM are second nature, requiring little thought. However, for some, these tasks pose significant challenges, as illustrated by the story of an elderly woman who struggled to collect her medication due to a lack of knowledge about using her bank card at the pharmacy.
According to South African Government News Agency, this incident highlights the broader issue of literacy and the critical need for basic and digital literacy in an increasingly digital world. The importance of literacy was underscored globally with the recent commemoration of International Literacy Day on 8 September 2026, an initiative by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) aimed at raising awareness about literacy's role in fostering a just and sustainable society.
The initiative seeks to remind both policymakers and the public of literacy's vital importance. The ability to read and write remains elusive for many globally, even as technology advances rapidly, offering conveniences such as banking apps that reduce the need for physical bank visits.
In South Africa, the government has made significant strides in expanding access to education, although challenges persist. The country's Constitution enshrines the right to basic and further education, and efforts have been made to fulfill this through various measures. Statistics South Africa's 2025 General Household Survey revealed a decline in adults with no education, from 11.4% in 2002 to 2.6% in 2025. However, functional illiteracy remains most prevalent among individuals over 60, with concerning levels among younger age groups as well.
President Cyril Ramaphosa, at the 2026 Basic Education Sector Lekgotla, emphasized the importance of building strong literacy and numeracy skills in early schooling years, calling it a national priority and moral imperative. The government's Basic Education Laws Amendment (BELA) Act, which makes Grade R compulsory, is one initiative aimed at strengthening the education system. Additionally, the expansion of Early Childhood Development Centres (ECD) has been prioritized, with significant growth in registrations.
Ultimately, literacy extends beyond reading and writing; it encompasses the ability to navigate digital platforms and access essential services independently. The true measure of success in South Africa's efforts will be seen in whether individuals possess the skills necessary to thrive in a digital society.