English literacy can only do one thing for you, and that’s being able to communicate (through reading and writing) in English Language. But reading and writing is not only done in English language. There are millions of languages in the world that could be used to read and write. Even if what you need to learn (resource material) is in English and you’re not able to read it, there are many tools that could be used to make it readable even in your own native language.
Digital proficiency widens your horizon to limitlessly access and utilize other languages. With it, you can get any information you want in your choice language. Conversely, if you acquire literacy in English without being digitally literate, you are stuck to information available in English or maybe, another language you can read. The wonderful difference is- with the aid of digital tools, you don’t necessarily need to read/write a language to get whatever you want.
English literacy can only help you read or write in English; it cannot give you practical intelligence neither can it make you innovative. Digital Literacy does! There are many world leaders, scientists, footballers, celebrities etc. that cannot even read a word in English still they are celebrated worldwide for standing out in their different endeavours. They speak their native languages and yet are making huge impacts in the world today-making the world a better and more comfortable place through their expertise, and with the mighty power of digital technology.
You don’t need English to be the best you can, but you need to know how to use basic IT tools in this modern-day, as everything revolves around it. You can speak to your computer in your own language and the computer will write it in English-the only thing you need is to be Computer literate and not English literate.
Information and communication technology (ICT) touches nearly every aspect of the life we live today. It is not about the language you understand; it is all about your knowledge of amazing digital tools that will make you survive in this digital era. In fact, it is a sine qua non for success in this IT age.
Digital literacy equips the youth with needed skills, and opens doors of opportunities to do exploits in this digital economy. Knowledge of grammar cannot give you this, but IT-intelligence can; it makes you relevant and functional to yourself and the society. Our world has gone digital; don’t be left behind!
