How learning to read changes lives ⏲️ 6 Minute English

Summary

In this episode of BBC's *6 Minute English*, hosts Phil and Beth explore the global issue of illiteracy, revealing that over 700 million adults cannot read or write. They highlight two projects aimed at improving literacy: the Friendship Project in Bangladesh, which empowers women and girls through reading and writing education, and Readeasy in the UK, connecting adult learners with volunteers for one-on-one lessons. Personal stories from participants like Rashida and Peter illustrate the transformative power of literacy, emphasizing its crucial role in everyday life and the need for continued support in literacy initiatives.

Takeaways

• 📚 Over 700 million adults worldwide are illiterate, meaning they cannot read or write.
• 🌍 Illiteracy is not a new issue; the UN has been highlighting it since 1967 with International Literacy Day.
• 📅 International Literacy Day is celebrated on September 8th each year.
• 🏫 A significant cause of adult illiteracy is a lack of access to education, especially in areas affected by natural disasters.
• 👩‍🏫 The Friendship Project in Bangladesh focuses on teaching reading, writing, and basic math to women and girls in flood-prone areas.
• 📝 Rashida, a participant in the Friendship Project, shares how learning to read and write has transformed her life and improved her self-confidence.
• 🇬🇧 Readeasy is a UK charity that pairs adult learners with trained volunteers for personalized reading and writing lessons.
• 🙋‍♂️ Peter, a learner with Readeasy, discusses the embarrassment of needing help with reading and how literacy has positively impacted his life.
• 💡 The ability to read and write empowers individuals, enabling them to manage finances and avoid being cheated.
• 🌟 Literacy is essential for daily activities, from reading newspapers to understanding product labels.

Q & A

What is the primary focus of the BBC Learning English program discussed in the transcript?

The program focuses on the issue of illiteracy around the world, discussing its implications and efforts to improve literacy rates.

According to the UN report mentioned, how many adults globally are estimated to be illiterate?

The UN report estimates that over 700 million adults worldwide are illiterate.

What is International Literacy Day and when is it celebrated?

International Literacy Day is a day established by the UN to highlight the importance of literacy, celebrated on September 8th.

What challenges do families in coastal towns of Bangladesh face regarding education?

Families in coastal towns of Bangladesh face challenges due to regular flooding, which disrupts education and forces families to move frequently.

What does the Friendship Project aim to achieve?

The Friendship Project aims to teach reading, writing, and numeracy to Bangladeshi women and girls, helping them gain essential skills for daily life.

How did Rashida's life change after participating in the Friendship Project?

Rashida learned to read and write, enabling her to sign her name and manage her expenses, thus preventing others from cheating her.

What is the purpose of the Readeasy charity in the UK?

Readeasy matches adult learners with trained volunteers for one-on-one lessons to help improve their reading and writing skills.

What personal challenges did Peter face due to his illiteracy?

Peter struggled with reading and writing, often feeling embarrassed and needing to ask neighbors to read his letters for him.

What positive changes did Peter experience after learning with Readeasy?

Peter became literate, which improved his self-esteem and allowed him to read books, including the Harry Potter series.

What does the term 'taking something for granted' mean in the context of the transcript?

It means assuming that something is true or exists without checking or considering its reality, as many people assume everyone can read and write.