UNESCO declared International Literacy Day on 26 October 1966 and it was celebrated for the first time on 8 September 1967. The annual event aims to highlight the importance of literacy to individuals, communities and societies. This year, UNESCO and schools celebrated the theme “Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies”.
Mr Ben Riley, the new principal of Vale Verde International School in Burgau, successfully implemented International Literacy Day (ILD) activities in both the primary and secondary schools. As part of the celebrations, all students brought a reading book to school for Everyone Reading in Class (ERIC), which served as a warm-up activity in their lessons. This initiative aimed to promote literacy across the curriculum. Students were also encouraged to donate books to the new school library project. The event featured students reading a variety of literature in different genres and languages, highlighting the international nature of the school and the day.
The English and drama departments are eagerly preparing for Poetry Day on 5 October 2023, which falls on Republic Day, a Portuguese national holiday.
“Let us remember: One book, one pen, one child, and one teacher can change the world.” – Malala Yousafzai
“The ability to read and write is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela
