The ability to read and write is a fundamental skill that is necessary for success in today’s world. However, there are still many adults who struggle with illiteracy. Mike Daniel, South Carolina’s former Lieutenant Governor and lifelong literacy advocate, has witnessed firsthand the startling implications of illiteracy in working adults today.
South Carolina, like many states, has a significant problem with illiteracy among its adult population. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the state ranks 41st in the nation for literacy rates among adults. As of 2018, the state’s literacy rate among adults aged 16 and older was 85%, meaning 15% of adults in the state are considered functionally illiterate.
The Importance of Literacy in the Workplace
Illiteracy in the workplace can have serious consequences, both for the employee and the employer. “In today’s economy, most jobs require some level of reading and writing skills,” says Mike Daniel. “Employees who struggle with literacy are often limited in their job options and have a harder time advancing in their careers.”
Not only can illiteracy limit job opportunities, but it can also lead to lower wages. “Many jobs that require reading and writing skills pay more than those that don’t,” explains Daniel. “Employees who struggle with literacy may find themselves stuck in lower-paying jobs.”
The Impact on Health and Safety
Illiteracy can also have an impact on health and safety in the workplace. “Employees who can’t read instructions or warning labels are at a higher risk for accidents and injuries,” says Daniel. “In some cases, illiteracy can put employees in life-threatening situations.”
This is especially true in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and transportation, where employees are often required to read and follow safety protocols. “Illiteracy can create a dangerous work environment for everyone involved,” warns Daniel.
The Role of Employers in Addressing Illiteracy
While illiteracy is a widespread issue, employers can play a crucial role in addressing it. “Employers have a responsibility to ensure that their employees have the basic literacy skills needed to perform their job duties,” says Daniel. “This includes providing training and support for employees who struggle with reading and writing.”
Providing literacy training not only benefits employees but also the employers themselves. “Investing in literacy training can lead to a more productive and efficient workforce,” explains Daniel. “Employees who have better reading and writing skills are better able to understand and follow instructions, which can lead to fewer mistakes and accidents.”
The Importance of Community Support
Addressing illiteracy is not just the responsibility of employers; it is a community concern. Community support is crucial for addressing illiteracy in working adults. This includes supporting literacy programs and organizations that provide resources and support for adults who struggle with reading and writing.
Charitable organizations like the ones Mike Daniel has worked with, combatting hunger in the state, can also play a role in addressing illiteracy. “Nutrition and literacy are often linked,” explains Daniel. “Children who struggle with hunger are more likely to struggle with literacy as well. By addressing hunger and promoting nutrition, we can help create an environment where families can thrive and accessing education is more manageable.”
While progress has been made in addressing illiteracy, there is still much work to be done. Supporting government funding for literacy programs and advocating for policies that promote literacy is a first step. Illiteracy is a solvable problem, but it requires a concerted effort coupled with raising awareness about the importance of literacy and working together to address this critical issue.
About Mike Daniel
The literacy problem in South Carolina is particularly acute among certain populations. For example, individuals who did not graduate from high school are much more likely to struggle with literacy than those who completed high school or have a higher level of education. During his time in office, Mike Daniel was integral in establishing adult literacy programs in rural and small-town areas throughout the state of South Carolina. Those efforts are still felt today.
Mike Daniel is South Carolina’s former Lieutenant Governor, and he is best known for creating jobs in the film industry, promoting the state’s hospitality, involving himself in the Irish Children’s Program, and fighting to bring literacy programs to the state. Mr. Daniel is known for his work with charitable organizations combatting hunger in the state and volunteers regularly to bring nutrition to underserved populations. He is a graduate of the University of South Carolina.
