Good morning Director, Headteacher, teachers, friends, and my dear students!
I am very excited to be here with you today to celebrate the International Literacy Day. This day was established by UNESCO in 1966, with the first celebration taking place on September 8, 1967. The purpose of this celebration is simple but powerful: to remind the whole world that literacy - being able to read, write, and learn, is the key to building peaceful and successful societies.
All over the world, people are celebrating this special day. At the UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France, experts are meeting right now to talk about literacy. And here in Accra, we are joining you, our special friends to celebrate the day.
The theme for this year is “Promoting Literacy in a Digital Era.” This means that literacy today is not only about reading from books, but also about learning to use technology wisely.
At the Legon Centre for Education Research and Policy (LECERP), we are celebrating under the theme “Digital Superheroes: Using Artificial Intelligence (AI) Responsibly.”
Now let me ask you:
[Who here likes superheroes?]
[If you could have a superpower, what would it be?]
Well, guess what? You already have some superpowers! In today’s world, technology, especially things like Artificial Intelligence (AI)-is like your superhero gadget. It can help you learn faster, solve Maths problems, do research, and even prepare for exams. But just like every superhero, you must use your power wisely.
Many years ago, people had to run long distances to deliver messages. Even not too long ago, if you wanted to talk to your sister or cousin in another town, you had to send a letter and wait weeks and months for a reply. People had to walk to the post office and wait in long queues just to send (post) a letter. But today, what do we do?
[How many of you here have ever used WhatsApp or Google to find something?]
See? Technology has made life easier. But being literate today also means knowing how to ask questions, how to use technology to support your studies, and how to treat others with respect online (digital space).
At LECERP, we conduct research, train people, and raise awareness of important issues in Ghana and beyond. We want to make sure no child is left behind in this digital age. That is why we are here today, to encourage you to become Digital Superheroes: young people who are smart, responsible, and caring in how you use technology.
So my message is simple:
“Technology, especially AI, is like a superhero gadget in your hands. It can help you learn, solve problems, and connect with others. But just like every superhero, your real strength lies in how responsibly you use it—to be smart, safe, and kind in the digital world.”
Therefore: Use technology, but don’t let it control you.
Be creative, curious, and kind to one another.
And always remember-your real power is not just in your phone or the internet, but in your mind and in your heart.
From now, joining me in saying:
“Digital Superheroes: Smart. Kind. Responsible.
I will like to say thank you to the Ghana Education Service, the Director of Education, the Headteacher and teachers for supporting this celebration.
I look forward to seeing how you all will use digital tools responsibly to help build a better Ghana. Happy International Literacy Day!
The remarks was delivered on 8th September, 2026 at the Madina Demonstration and Special Unit Basic School.