Learning to Understand, Participate, and Thrive
September 8, 2026, marks the 60th anniversary of International Literacy Day, proclaimed by UNESCO in 1966. Under the theme “Literacy for People, Planet and Prosperity,” this year’s observance invites us to reflect on the progress made, but above all, to consider the skills people need to navigate a rapidly changing society.
The global event, being held in Mexico, will also feature the presentation of the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes, which recognize outstanding initiatives around the world.
Much More Than Reading and Writing
Recognized as a fundamental human right, literacy contributes to independence, dignity, peace, and sustainable development. It enables people to understand medical instructions, support a child’s learning, exercise their rights, access public services, and participate fully in civic life.
In the digital age, literacy has taken on a new dimension. Today, people must be able to understand, evaluate, create, and share information, use digital tools safely, and think critically about the vast amount of content they encounter. Knowing how to distinguish credible information from misleading content has itself become an essential tool for greater independence.
Education at the Heart of the SNJM Mission
Puente Learning Center-1988-Source : Service central des archives SNJM
This vision is directly aligned with the mission of the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary (SNJM). From the founding of the Congregation, Mother Marie-Rose Durocher sought to provide girls with a meaningful education, particularly those in rural areas who had limited access to schooling.
The SNJM went beyond basic learning. They gradually developed a wide range of educational opportunities that enabled young women to cultivate their talents, pursue further studies, and take a more active role within their families and society.
That commitment remains alive today in many forms, including academic support, language learning for immigrants, support for refugees, and educational initiatives serving more vulnerable populations.
“Should Women Be Educated?”
Mother Véronique-du-Crucifix (Hedwidge Davignon)
A text by Mother Véronique-du-Crucifix, Director of Studies in the late 19th century, offers a remarkably relevant example of the SNJM vision of education.
At a time when access to advanced education for girls was far from a given, she directly asked the question: “Is it good for women to be educated?” Her answer left no room for ambiguity:
“We do not hesitate to say that this question is insulting to women. […] A young girl should receive a serious, solid, extensive, and complete education […]. Nothing should be neglected in enriching her mind and developing her intelligence.”
She concluded with this remarkable invitation:
“And so we say to young girls: study, continually cultivate your intelligence.”
More than a century later, this call remains as powerful as ever. Promoting literacy means giving every person the tools to understand the world, develop sound judgment, make informed choices, make their voice heard, and participate in society.
On its 60th anniversary, International Literacy Day reminds us that learning is not simply an economic necessity: it is also a path toward greater independence, freedom, and human flourishing.
Visual highlighting the diversity of subjects taught in all the schools where the SNJM was active at the time.