The functional literacy rate in the country, specifically among individuals aged 7 years and above, currently stands at 62.92 percent. In comparison, the general literacy rate across the country is 74.23 percent. However, when focusing on the age group of 11 to 45 years, the functional literacy rate has significantly increased to 73.69 percent in 2023, compared to 53.70 percent in 2011.
Furthermore, the functional literacy rate among individuals aged 7 to 14 years is presently 72.97 percent, whereas, among those aged 15 years and above, it is 60.77 percent. These statistics were disclosed during the publication ceremony of the “Literacy Assessment Survey (LAS) to Monitor Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Project,” which took place at the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) auditorium on July 17.
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The report publishing ceremony featured several notable speakers. Planning Minister MA Mannan addressed the gathering as the chief guest, while Dr. Shahnaz Arefin, Secretary of the Statistics and Informatics Division, and Dr. Uttam Kumar Das, Additional Director General of the Directorate of Primary Education, spoke as special guests. The event was presided over by Md Motiar Rahman, Director General of the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS).
What the survey founds?
The BBS previously conducted a pilot survey in 2008 and subsequently expanded its scope in 2011. This marks the third time that the BBS has carried out the LAS. The latest survey, conducted from March 1, 2020, to March 2023, reveals that the functional literacy rate for individuals aged 7 to 14 years is 72.97 percent, while for those aged 15 years and above, it is 60.77 percent.
The functional literacy rate among the male, female, and transgender (Hijra) communities aged 7 years and above currently stands at 62.92 percent. Additionally, the functional literacy rate for individuals aged between 11 and 45 years has increased to 60.77 percent in 2023, compared to 53.70 percent in 2011.
In his speech as the chief guest, Minister Mannan acknowledged the positive changes in the operations of the Statistics and Informatics Division (SID) and the timely delivery of data and statistics by the BBS. He emphasized the need for further progress in these areas.
Referring to the survey findings, the Planning Minister highlighted the increasing trend of girls’ education in the country, attributing it to the government’s timely initiatives. He also suggested disseminating the survey findings to various local government officials, such as deputy commissioners, police superintendents, upazila parishad chairmen, to enhance understanding and recommended conducting such surveys every five years.
Dr. Shahnaz Arefin, Secretary of the Statistics and Informatics Division, emphasized the importance of conducting the LAS every five years, as it would enable the delivery of vital statistics to policymakers for the formulation of timely and appropriate policies. She mentioned that the Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics (BBS) consistently strives to project accurate data in a timely manner, and these efforts will continue in the future.
Upward shifting trend of literacy rate continues
Based on the most recent survey results, there has been a notable increase in the functional literacy rate among males aged between 11 and 45 years. In 2023, the functional literacy rate for this demographic reached 74.10 percent, demonstrating a significant improvement from the 56.90 percent recorded in 2011. Similarly, the functional literacy rate among females in the same age group has risen to 73.25 percent in 2023, compared to 50.20 percent in 2011.
When examining the rural population aged between 11 and 45 years, the functional literacy rate in 2023 stands at 70.54 percent, compared to 50.60 percent in 2011. On the other hand, among the urban population in the same age group, the functional literacy rate has reached 80.35 percent in 2023, compared to 65.60 percent in 2011.
The survey findings also indicate that within the 11-45 age group, 16.08 percent of individuals have no literacy, 10.22 percent have slight literacy, 20.66 percent have an initial level of literacy, and 53.03 percent have a higher level of literacy. The functional literacy rate was determined based on an examination in which each sample or individual had to score a minimum of 50 out of 100 marks.
Overall, these findings shed light on the functional literacy rates among different demographic groups and highlight the progress made in literacy rates over the years.
What is functional literacy, and how it differs from ‘literacy’?
Literacy is commonly understood as the ability to read, write, and perform basic arithmetic. However, this conventional definition fails to capture the full essence of literacy. Merely decoding words on a page does not guarantee comprehension of complex arguments or analogies. Similarly, the act of writing or typing sentences does not guarantee the ability to express complete and coherent thoughts. Basic math skills, such as counting and performing simple calculations, do not encompass the analytical and problem-solving abilities required to interpret graphs, analyse statistics, or develop budgets. These practical skills are essential for making informed decisions and functioning effectively in everyday life.
It is evident that literacy cannot be adequately assessed solely based on reading and writing words or performing basic mathematical operations. The broader concept of literacy, known as functional literacy, encompasses the ability to comprehend, apply, and utilise words and numbers in real-life situations. Functional literacy enables individuals to participate actively in their communities and navigate the challenges they encounter. This definition is endorsed by UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, which conducts research on education, science, and communication.
Functional literacy goes beyond merely securing employment; it encompasses the preservation of skills necessary for the smooth functioning of society. Without individuals possessing mathematical knowledge, reading and writing proficiency, and critical thinking abilities, our businesses, governments, and communities would be unable to operate effectively. In essence, functional literacy is a fundamental prerequisite for the existence of a well-functioning society.
Conversely, a society plagued by functional illiteracy would be dysfunctional, as humorously depicted in the movie “Idiocracy.” It highlights the consequences of a society in which individuals lack the necessary skills to contribute meaningfully and navigate the complexities of the world.
