Rotary Sunrise aids literacy

(CNS): Rotary Sunrise is sponsoring an adult literacy pilot program with the Leading Edge High School using a new computer program called the Computer Assisted Literacy Solution, which is ideal for teaching adults as well as children, even those whose first language is not English. Members have been reading with some of the youngsters at the Leading Edge High School for some time and real progress has been made because of the one to one attention. (Left: Rotary Sunrise Secretary Deborah Lee-Chambers)

Now this computer program has taken the whole process to a new level, according to a release from the service club. Rotary Sunrise says results from the pilot program look promising and if it works well the plan is to enlarge the program. Not only reading but math understanding can be hugely assisted by this application. Rotary Sunrise will supply coordinators and facilitators and the computer program licensing, the students enjoy the experience, and Cayman will benefit.

Literacy is a cause for celebration since there are almost four billion literate people in the world. However there are many adults and children around the world, including here in the Cayman Islands, for whom literacy is still an unaccomplished goal.

International Literacy Day(ILD) is observed around the world on 8 September. The special day was established in 1965 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). This year ILD is placing a special focus on the important relationship between literacy and health – two of the main themes of Rotary Sunrise’s community and vocational service projects. The theme for ILD is “Literacy is the Best Remedy.”

UNESCO and its partners are underlining the significance of literacy for healthy societies, with a strong emphasis on epidemics and communicable diseases such as HIV, tuberculosis and malaria. These are some of the world’s most important public health concerns.

The following bookstores will be offering a 10% discount on all books (not toys, etc) purchased on Monday 8 September, International Literacy Day: Book Nook (open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm), Books & Books (open from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm), Hobbies and Books Piccadilly Store (open from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm), and Grand Harbour Store, Books By The Bay (open from 10:00 am to 8:00 pm).

Rotary SUNRISE was chartered in 2002. Has nearly 100 members (32 ladies) mostly young professionals from Cayman and 21 other countries. Having fun helping in the community.