Studying in Canada: A Pathway to Global Literacy Advocacy
September 8 is International Literacy Day, a global reminder that literacy is not just a fundamental human right, but a key driver of social and economic development. For international students preparing to study in Canada, this day is a powerful opportunity to reflect on how education can open doors—not only for themselves, but for others.
📖 What Does Literacy Mean Today?
Literacy today goes far beyond reading and writing. It includes:
Digital literacy – navigating technology safely and effectively
Financial literacy – understanding how to manage money
Health literacy – interpreting information about wellness and healthcare
Civic literacy – participating in society with knowledge and purpose
Cultural literacy – understanding diverse perspectives and histories
When international students come to Canada, they don’t just improve their academic skills—they also gain the kinds of multi-dimensional literacy that enable them to contribute meaningfully to their home countries and the global community.
🌍 Why International Literacy Day Matters to International Students
As an international student in Canada, you are gaining access to:
High-quality academic programs
Advanced digital infrastructure
English and French language environments
Exposure to diverse ideas and cultures
All of this helps build your own literacy in multiple forms. But Canadian universities also give students the chance to support literacy causes—locally and globally.
📚 Canadian University Programs That Support Literacy
Here are some examples of how Canadian universities are working to improve literacy and how you, as an international student, can get involved:
📘 University of Alberta – Edmonton, Alberta
Students at the University of Alberta can get involved with the Reading Research Laboratory through research assistant positions or directed-study courses. Opportunities are available for both graduate and advanced undergraduate students, particularly those interested in reading development, language processing, and literacy interventions.
Students will:
Learn key aspects of literacy research
Explore real-world applications of literacy research
Deepen understanding of literacy development across diverse learners
UAlberta also supports adult literacy initiatives in partnership with Edmonton-based community organizations.
📕 University of Waterloo – Waterloo, Ontario
Waterloo’s Writing and Communication Centre not only supports student writing, but also trains peer tutors and runs workshops on digital and media literacy.
The Literacy: A Global Perspective course and the Peace and Conflict Studies program engage students in conversations about education and equity around the world.
Waterloo students also participate in community literacy initiatives through St. John’s-Kilmarnock School, Strong Start, and international development clubs.
📗 Western University – London, Ontario
Western's Faculty of Education includes research centres focused on literacy and early childhood learning. International students can take part in:
Reading outreach programs in schools and libraries
Service-learning projects focused on improving youth literacy
Graduate-level research in literacy education, ESL, and culturally responsive pedagogy
The Western Learn It Together Program also places students in roles that support literacy, especially for newcomers and refugee children.
✍️ How You Can Get Involved as an International Student
Volunteer with literacy groups on campus or in the community: Many Canadian universities have partnerships with organizations that help children, immigrants, and under-served populations develop literacy skills.
Take courses related to literacy, development, or communication: Even if you're in business or engineering, elective courses can give you valuable insights.
Participate in English language support programs: You can both receive help and eventually give back by mentoring new students.
Start a literacy project or club: Many universities offer funding and mentorship for student-led initiatives.
💡 Final Thoughts
Literacy is a foundation for equality, empowerment, and lifelong learning. On International Literacy Day, as you prepare for or begin your studies in Canada, remember that your journey can help others as well.
Whether it’s through tutoring, teaching, researching, or simply sharing your own story, you can become a literacy champion—not just in Canada, but back home and around the world.
Education is not just about what you learn. It’s about how you use your knowledge to help others learn, too.
Want to get involved? Contact Go 2 Canada Education Services to help you find the right program for you.
Photo by Mikhail Nilov