Kottayam loses its literacy record

By Sachin Jose
KOTTAYAM: The district is lagging in literacy rate as the municipality and the Kerala State Literacy Mission Authority (KSLMA) are reportedly lackadaisical in conducting follow-up programmes to upgrade the level of education of neo-literates here.

   A resident of Nagampadom Colony, Amina (uses only one name), who underwent literacy classes in the late 1980s, said, "I was taught for three months, but now I don't remember much of what I had learned."

   Former District Collector Alphons Kannanthanam said, "In the late eighties, we achieved 90 per cent literacy which made Kottayam, the first fully literate town in India."

   "But now Pathanamthitta and Alappuzha have surpassed the district in literacy. The State Government has lost its enthusiasm and the incumbent Collector is responsible for taking initiatives for follow-up programmes," he added.

   According to Mr Kannanthanam, Tripura's recent surge above Kerala in literacy is the result of this lackadaisical attitude across the State.

   Meanwhile, writer Rosemary said, "Anyone who can read, write and count cannot be considered as literates or numerates. They must be given proper education rather than merely taught to sign their own name."

   "But, the 'so-called literacy mission' lacks sincere efforts and rather concentrates on excelling in statistics," she added.

   However, the KSLMA blamed lack of financial assistance from the Central Government for the lagging "Akshara Laksham" project meant to provide basic literacy to people across the state.

     The funds were withdrawn as women in all districts of Kerala achieved more than 90 per cent literacy.