World Computer Literacy Day

The lack of knowledge of operating a computer, the advantages that come from it and the increasing digital isolation from the rest of the world are some of the leading factors for the digital backwardness of certain demographics, specifically women and children. World Literacy Day celebrated on the 2nd of December every year is an occasion that seeks to curb this problem.

The main goal of world computer literacy day is to curb ignorance concerning computers and their use. (Image: timebulletin )

Digitalization is the new method of operation in the modern world. Along with this comes the need for every individual to have at least the basic know-how of operating a computer. However, even in this digitally forward world, there are certain sections of society that lack access to these machines that have morphed into an almost-basic need during the contemporary age. A research study in fact showed that the digitally backward demographics were mostly women and children.

On 2nd December 2001, the Indian company N.I.I.T (National Institute of Information Technology) a skills and talent development organization, observed this day as its 20th anniversary. The company, started by Vijay K. Thadani and Rajendra Singh Pawar, marked this day as World Computer Literacy Day as a response to the problem of the lack of awareness regarding computers, especially among women and children. The positive effects of starting this day of awareness was felt in more than 30 different countries since the company’s establishment in 1981.

Before this, the majority of the people benefitting from the use of computers and other such devices were mostly found to be men. The lack of knowledge of operating a computer, the advantages that come from it and the increasing digital isolation from the rest of the world were some of the leading factors for the backwardness of the groups as mentioned earlier. The main goal of world computer literacy day is to curb ignorance concerning computers and their use. The dependence on these machines is expected to increase with the passing of time, therefore, it is only natural for people to learn the use of what will be a basic tool for survival in the future.

Computer literacy day has now been celebrated for more than two decades. The operation of this legacy of Charles Babbage is now looked upon as a basic skill set that is required for even the humblest of employment opportunities. Every year, this day of celebration has themes attached to it. ‘Literacy for human-centred recovery - Narrowing the digital divide’in 2021 was the last known thematic celebration. On this day not only men but women, children and even senior citizens are familiarized with the functions and uses of a computer. Lessons can vary from elementary-grade knowledge right up to advanced programming.

This occasion also carries a strong sense of charity with computers, smartphones and other such devices being donated to make computer gadgets more accessible to people. Moreover, awareness is also spread through the use of the hashtag #worldcomputerliteracyday on several social media platforms.

Computers today might not look like the traditional set of desktop, a keyboard and a mouse but comes in many other shapes and sizes, such as laptops, mobile phones, tablets and watches as well. Making computers portable and their cheaper versions available in the market has certainly brought about a significant advancement in their accessibility.

The celebration of computers may seem odd under normal circumstances but considering that this occasion not only promotes education, and awareness but also connects people to one another all the while channelling the spirit of charity, this day remains underrated in its celebration yet impactful in a distinguishingly humble manner.