Addressing digital and traditional illiteracy: challenges and solutions for empowering society
of literacy is no longer limited to deciphering script and learning the basics of reading and writing. It has transcended this to become a fundamental pillar of sustainable development and a human right that opens broad horizons for economic and social empowerment. The celebration of Arab Literacy Day , observed annually on January 8th, serves as a reminder of the importance of concerted efforts to confront this challenge that hinders the progress of nations.
The evolution of the concept: from alphabetic to digital
Historically, literacy efforts have focused on basic education, but with the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the massive digital transformation the world is witnessing, the term “digital illiteracy” has emerged. International reports indicate that the ability to use technology is no longer a luxury, but an urgent necessity for conducting daily transactions, accessing government services, and competing in the job market. In this context, experts confirmed to Al-Youm that confronting illiteracy in both its traditional and digital forms requires innovative strategies that go beyond traditional classrooms.
Economic and social challenges
Educationalist Ghazil Al-Shahrani explained that the persistence of illiteracy in some Arab societies stems from a complex web of factors, foremost among them poverty and economic hardship. Despite free education in most countries, indirect costs can place a significant burden on impoverished families. She added that the trend toward rapid vocational training without a solid academic foundation, coupled with the rigidity of some curricula, leads to school dropout. Al-Shahrani warned of the “digital divide,” which can isolate individuals socially and economically, even those who are literate. She pointed out that eradicating illiteracy by 2026 now means “comprehensive empowerment” for individuals, enabling them to transform from consumers to producers in the knowledge economy.
Quality of life and sustainable development
For her part, Dr. Amira Saad Al-Zahrani, Associate Professor of Curriculum and Instruction, linked literacy to improved quality of life. She explained that education raises health and social awareness and empowers individuals to manage their affairs effectively. She emphasized the need for literacy programs to encompass all age groups and to be developed to address digital illiteracy, thus ensuring the building of an informed society.
In the same context, digital education expert Dr. Tahani Al-Dusaimani stressed that integrating modern technologies into adult education programs and linking curricula to life skills and the labor market is a crucial step to reduce the educational gap and achieve the principle of equal opportunities.
Saudi Arabia: A global model in eradicating illiteracy
In an inspiring success story, family and psychological consultant Dr. Sarah Al-Subaie highlighted the historic achievement of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in reducing its illiteracy rate to approximately 2%, down from over 22% in previous decades. Dr. Al-Subaie attributed this success to integrated institutional efforts that placed human beings at the heart of development, and to the state's investment in a comprehensive and interconnected educational system, making the Saudi experience a model to be emulated regionally and internationally.
The future of education and digital transformation
Dr. Abeer bint Sulaiman Al-Humaidi, Associate Professor at King Saud University and consultant in emerging technologies, concluded by emphasizing that technological illiteracy is the next challenge. She explained that simplifying user interfaces in digital systems and providing accessible training programs for the elderly and those with limited technical knowledge is essential to ensuring that no one is left behind. She commended the Kingdom's efforts in establishing educational centers and facilitating access to knowledge across various geographical regions.
