BIC encourages communities and students to prioritize development of motor skills.
Stemming from its commitment to improving learning conditions for 250 million students by 2025, BIC, a world leader in stationery, marks International Literacy
South Africa has long been struggling with an ongoing literacy crisis that requires immediate attention and collaborative efforts to ensure students' success. Many factors, including undiagnosed learning disabilities, poverty, lack of resources, unavailability of role models or mentors, and inadequate motor skills, influence this pressing issue. The latter involves the inability to grasp pencils and pens, thus, the incapability to write and use scissors, amongst others. According to a study[2] carried out by a group of researchers from the Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy departments at Stellenbosch University, it has been found that inadequate motor skills play a significant role in hindering academic achievement.
South Africa's low literacy rate has been internationally
Commenting on the importance of literacy, Lilian Henderson, BIC's Marketing Director for Southern and Eastern Africa, says: "Literacy goes beyond the ability to read and write; it empowers individuals, strengthens communities, and drives economic growth. It is a fundamental human right that enables people to access information, express themselves, and participate fully in society. We must support our students and motivate parents to help their children when they struggle with reading and writing. We need to collaborate with businesses, organizations, individuals, and schools to provide the necessary resources for our future generation."
BIC continues to support children and youth through ongoing education-focused initiatives. The current 4-Colour campaign encourages children to engage in hands-on activities that stimulate their fine motor skills. By providing quality writing instruments and promoting creative doodling, children are inspired to explore their artistic abilities while enhancing their manual dexterity through the joy of drawing and writing.
The literacy crisis must be addressed by prioritizing education and investing in strategies that address the root causes. It also involves delivering quality education to all students, providing teachers with adequate resources, encouraging the improvement of motor skills and development, and adopting a reading culture in schools and at home.