Literacy rate issue in Canada

According to Melanie Valcin, who is the president and CEO of United for Literacy, an organization focused on enhancing Canadians' grasp of written language says there is a significant issue concerning literacy rates in our country.

During an interview on CTV's Your Morning, Melanie Valcin  said literacy is really something that everyone should have, and expressed concern about individuals who face difficulties in this area, stating that they often find themselves at a disadvantage and left behind.

To provide an example, Melanie Valcin highlighted that one in every five Canadians faces challenges when it comes to reading important information such as prescription labels, understanding the healthcare system, or participating in the voting process.

Valcin mentioned several reasons that contribute to inadequate literacy skills among Canadians. These include individuals not finishing high school, having learning disabilities, and newcomers facing significant challenges as they learn a new language.

She highlighted the critical impact of inadequate reading, writing, numeracy, or digital literacy skills on individuals trying to function in today's world. She emphasized that these difficulties can have significant consequences, hindering their ability to navigate various aspects of life. For instance, tasks like completing job applications, housing forms, or accessing essential written information necessary for basic needs can become daunting challenges.

There is often a correlation between the cycle of poverty and the cycle of low literacy, Valcin added. Low literacy has a significant impact not only on individuals but also on the country's economy. It affects productivity, prosperity, and even has implications for human rights within the country.