Literacy Is a Fact, Not Just a Degree

The scope of literacy influencing the quality of social life in a given society is to be defined where it is necessary that infrastructure required for its development be also outlined. Literacy in its broad context can be classified into three main categories: 1) General literacy and skills consisting of those that deal with reading, writing and numerical calculation, knowledge of computers and Internet usage. It also includes familiarity with the language and symbolism used in Internet facilities. General literacy in its broad spectrum includes also being current on the use of social communication channels such as newspapers and other similar tools that are an integral part of social life for maintaining quality of social life, high standard of social welfare and social living in the society. 2) Scientific literacy, including knowledge of concepts and theories used in the chosen field of the study. It includes, applying concepts and theories in outlining hypothesis aimed towards a solution for use in dealing significant problems in the chosen field of study. As an integral part of scientific knowledge, familiarity with methods and tools for use in generating scientific data along with optimal usage and in-depth analysis of such data and scientific information to be used for developing innovative solutions are considered to be an integral part of scientific literacy. 3) Rational and judgmental literacy and wisdom in which understanding of the underlying truth behind things in our world and realizing the true meaning of our life where by giving thanks to the Creator, a level of knowledge and literacy is reached that can be categorized as pure and universal literacy in line with divine knowledge. It is the knowledge necessary to give meaning to life in this world and the hereafter. To train and educate people in each categories of literacy as stated above in a given society, requires developing underlying structures that include: a) unified and cultured family, b) Schools that are equipped with necessary facilities and administered by teachers and educators of high knowledge. c) Universities and scientific centers that are run by educators having high knowledge in their field of study and finally by distinguished professors. As an integral part of literate society, it is necessary to have talented students, up-to-date educational and research facilities including laboratories, support facilities to carry out the required research works enabling development of high valued databases of scientific information for their analysis at the national, international and extraterrestrial scientific communication facilities. d) Academies of science and cultural centers where by the presence of eminent, experienced and high knowledge professors, it is possible to outline macro-scientific policies and guidelines for the advancement of knowledge, science and literature at the national and international level. e) Establishing official and private centers in the communities and in the society as a whole that are destined to support and promote knowledge and creativity in the society. Today, our students at universities and high schools are not being educated in line with guidelines and educational structures mentioned above. While most of them receive degree and a document certifying their education, they are still not satisfied. Considering facilities that are used currently, it is worthwhile to have proper management for a synergistic utilization of the existing resources for a meaningful and well-planned educational training of our children who are the main resource of future development of our society. Of course, this requires concerted efforts of both government and public sectors to achieve this goal.