But today, literacy is no longer just about reading words on a page. The digital age has redefined what it means to be literate. Access to information now often depends on digital tools, from online classrooms to mobile learning apps. That means bridging the digital divide is just as important as teaching reading and writing. Without access, millions remain excluded.
This year, International Literacy Day highlights this very reality with the theme “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era.” With more than 739 million people worldwide still unable to read or write, digital platforms have become crucial players in spreading knowledge.
Technology as a Literacy Lifeline
Digital platforms are not just for entertainment; they are lifelines. They connect people to education, open doors to self-improvement, and amplify cultural voices. In Africa, where internet access and literacy challenges are intertwined, companies like MultiChoice are taking on a bigger role than ever before.
Known for telling African stories, MultiChoice has steadily evolved into a bridge across the digital divide. Beyond broadcasting sports and Nollywood hits, the company invests in initiatives that drive inclusion: regional streaming options, flexible payments for low-income households, and a continent-wide digital payment ecosystem.
Its MultiChoice Talent Factory (MTF) is a prime example. Young creatives from across Africa get hands-on training, mentorship, and opportunities to tell their own stories. To date, nearly 500 alumni have launched production companies and produced over 160 films, creating content that reflects African cultures for African audiences. That’s literacy in action, storytelling as empowerment.
Education Beyond the Classroom
The impact also extends to education. Through channels like Mindset Learn, Disney Jr, Nickelodeon, and Cartoon Network, children access learning and entertainment at the same time. During the COVID-19 lockdowns, when schools were shut and millions of families turned to television as the only teacher available, these platforms became vital tools for continuity in learning.
On top of that, MultiChoice supports sustainability and innovation, partnering with initiatives like the Earthshot Prize to showcase African problem-solvers tackling climate and community challenges. And across the continent, its staff-led social projects uplift schools, healthcare facilities, women’s groups, and local sports teams.
Access Is Power
The fight against inequality is no longer just about teaching people to read; it’s about making sure they can connect, participate, and thrive in a digital world. Access is power. Digital platforms, from satellites to streaming apps, are becoming the new engines of literacy and knowledge. MultiChoice, through its content, technology, and training initiatives, is at the heart of this movement, helping millions across Africa take that first step toward freedom, equality, and a better future.