Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders: Bridge International Academies Celebrates International Literacy Day
September 8th is a remarkable day in the world of education and the world at large, this is because we all come together to celebrate International Literacy Day. This day serves as a reminder of the fundamental importance of literacy in our lives and the role it plays in shaping a better future for all.
Bridge International Academies: A Beacon of Learning
In a world where access to quality education remains a challenge for many, Bridge International Academies stands out as a beacon of hope for countless children in Nigeria. A 2022 report by Professor Micheal Kremer, a 2019 Nobel Prize-winning Harvard Scholar, following a 2-year study of the holistic Bridge Methodology found that Bridge increased pupil learning by 1.35 standard deviations for early childhood learning and 0.81 standard deviations for primary learning. This translates into two more years of learning for early childhood learning and nearly a whole year more for primary school pupils. This remarkable achievement is a testament to Bridge’s unwavering commitment to educational excellence.
Additionally, an EDOREN report on Bridge International Academies pupils also showed that in literacy, students at Bridge schools have better performance than students at other private schools (by 0.35 standard deviations) and public schools (by 1.38 standard deviations)
The Global Learning Crisis
According to a UNESCO report on learning poverty, a staggering 70% of 10-year-olds in developing countries cannot read. The report said
Learning poverty has increased by a third in low- and middle-income countries, with an estimated 70% of 10-year-olds unable to understand a simple written text – UNESCO 2023
This alarming statistic underscores the urgency of addressing the global learning crisis. Even when children have access to schools, the quality of education they receive often falls short, leaving them ill-equipped to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world.
Bridge’s Electronic Reading Programme: A Path to Literacy
Bridge International Academies has taken a bold step towards bridging this gap by introducing an Electronic Reading Programme. This innovative initiative has not only exposed Bridge pupils to a wealth of knowledge but has also empowered them to communicate freely in the digital age. By harnessing the power of technology, Bridge has embraced the future of education.
A Testament to Success: A Bridge Pupil’s Published Book
Recently, the world witnessed the remarkable achievement of a Bridge pupil who authored and published a book. This accomplishment is a testament to the transformative power of education. It demonstrates that Bridge pupils not only excel academically but also have the confidence and skills to share their stories with the world.
Supplementary Textbooks for Enhanced Literacy
In addition to the Electronic Reading Programme, Bridge International Academies provides its pupils with supplementary textbooks. These resources are carefully curated to aid literacy and comprehension. They serve as valuable tools for both teachers and students, fostering a deeper understanding of the subjects and promoting literacy.
The impact of Bridge’s efforts is not merely anecdotal; it is supported by concrete data. The one-year learning advantage enjoyed by Bridge pupils, as highlighted in Professor Kremer’s report, is a clear indicator of the effectiveness of Bridge’s approach to education.
As we celebrate International Literacy Day this year, Bridge International Academies in Nigeria stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when education is prioritized and innovative solutions are embraced. In a world in transition, literacy remains the cornerstone of progress, peace, and sustainability. Bridge International Academies is building the foundation for a brighter future, one pupil at a time. Let us all take inspiration from this mission and the success so far and continue to work towards a world where every child can read, learn, and thrive.
