ULLAS Literacy Fortnight – Celebrating Literacy for Life

- Mrs. Mohini Goshi

Don Bosco Primary School, Matunga enthusiastically participated in the ULLAS Literacy Fortnight from 1st to 12th September 2026, organized in accordance with the guidelines of the Education Inspector’s Office, Brihanmumbai South Division. The programme aimed to create awareness about literacy and highlight the importance of reading, education, creativity, health awareness and lifelong learning.

The fortnight provided students and teachers with meaningful opportunities to understand that literacy extends far beyond reading and writing. It includes the ability to access information, communicate effectively, make informed decisions and apply knowledge in everyday life. What made the fortnight particularly meaningful was the keen interest shown by the school boys in understanding why literacy matters throughout life. Through discussions and activities, they began to appreciate that being literate is not merely about academic success, but about having the knowledge, confidence and skills to make responsible choices and continue learning at every stage of life.

1st September 2026 - Inauguration

The ULLAS Literacy Fortnight commenced with an introduction to the objectives and importance of literacy. Students were made aware of the significance of literacy in personal development and nation-building. Teachers encouraged students to actively participate in the various activities planned throughout the programme.

The boys listened with interest and curiosity as they explored the wider meaning of literacy and began to recognize how education can empower individuals to understand the world around them and contribute meaningfully to society.

2nd September 2026 - Literacy Survey

A literacy survey activity was undertaken to create awareness about the literacy status of the community. Students and teachers discussed the importance of ensuring that every individual has access to basic literacy and educational opportunities. The activity helped students understand their role in creating an inclusive and educated society.

The boys showed keen interest in understanding why literacy must reach every section of society and how access to education can open doors to greater awareness and opportunity.

4th September 2026 - Reading Motivation Activity

A special reading motivation activity was conducted to encourage students to develop a regular reading habit. Students were encouraged to read age-appropriate books and share their thoughts and experiences. The activity highlighted how reading enhances vocabulary, imagination, comprehension, confidence and communication skills.

For the boys, the activity reinforced the understanding that reading is not simply a classroom requirement but a lifelong habit that can broaden their knowledge, strengthen their thinking and open their minds to new ideas and experiences.

7th September 2026 - Teachers’ Dialogue Meet

Teachers participated in a meaningful dialogue on effective literacy practices and innovative teaching strategies. The interaction provided an opportunity to exchange ideas and discuss child-friendly, activity-based approaches that can make literacy learning more engaging and effective.

8th September 2026 - Banner and Poster Competition

Students enthusiastically participated in a Banner and Poster-Making Competition based on the theme of literacy. Through drawings, slogans and creative messages, students expressed their understanding of the importance of education and literacy. The activity encouraged creativity while reinforcing the social message of the ULLAS initiative.

The boys’ creative expressions reflected their growing understanding that literacy empowers people to learn, communicate, make informed choices and become responsible members of society.

9th September 2026 - Library Visit

Students were encouraged to make greater use of the school library. The activity focused on developing a love for books and cultivating a lasting reading habit. Students explored different reading materials and were motivated to read regularly, both at school and at home.

The visit further strengthened the boys’ appreciation of books as a valuable source of knowledge and reinforced the idea that learning does not end with the school bell.

11th September 2026 - Literacy Awareness Rally

A Literacy Awareness Rally was organized in and around the school premises. Students carried colourful posters and placards displaying meaningful messages on literacy and the importance of education. Through slogans and awareness messages, the students encouraged the community to recognize the value of education and lifelong learning.

The rally provided students with an opportunity to spread the message of literacy beyond the classroom and become active participants in the ULLAS mission. As young ambassadors of literacy, the boys took pride in sharing a message they had begun to understand for themselves -that the ability to read, learn and make informed choices is a lifelong strength.

12th September 2026 - Health and Hygiene Awareness

As part of the ULLAS initiative, a Health and Hygiene Awareness Programme was conducted. Students were guided on the importance of personal cleanliness, proper handwashing, healthy eating habits, safe drinking water and maintaining clean surroundings.

The session emphasised that literacy also includes acquiring practical knowledge that helps individuals make healthy and responsible choices in their daily lives. Students were encouraged to practise good hygiene habits at school, at home and in the community.

The boys showed interest in understanding how knowledge gained through literacy can be applied to everyday situations, helping them make informed decisions about their own health and well-being.

Adult Literacy Awareness during Ganesh Chaturthi

As part of the school’s continued efforts to spread the message of Adult Literacy, students actively participated in an awareness initiative during Ganesh Chaturthi. Students prepared and displayed charts, banners and posters carrying meaningful messages about adult literacy, education and lifelong learning.

The displays were used to reach out to parents, visitors and members of the wider community during the festive period. Through their creative presentations, students highlighted that education and literacy are not limited by age and encouraged adults to recognise the importance of basic literacy and continued learning.

The initiative provided students with an opportunity to become young ambassadors of literacy and helped them understand their role in creating an educated, aware and empowered community. It also deepened their own understanding that literacy is a lifelong journey — one that enables individuals to keep learning, adapting and growing, regardless of age.

12th September 2026 - Closing Ceremony

The ULLAS Literacy Fortnight activities concluded with a closing session in the school. The activities conducted during the programme were reviewed, and the enthusiastic participation of students and teachers was appreciated.

The programme provided a platform for students to learn, express themselves creatively and understand the wider meaning of literacy. The boys’ curiosity, enthusiasm and active participation demonstrated that they had not only enjoyed the activities but had also begun to recognize the lasting value of being literate in life. The school community reaffirmed its commitment to promoting reading, learning and awareness beyond the classroom.

Conclusion

The ULLAS Literacy Fortnight at Don Bosco Primary School, Matunga was an enriching and meaningful experience for students and teachers. Through reading activities, creative competitions, awareness programmes, the Adult Literacy awareness initiative during Ganesh Chaturthi, the literacy rally and health education activities, students gained a broader understanding of literacy and its relevance to everyday life.

The programme successfully promoted reading habits, communication skills, creativity, adult literacy, health and hygiene awareness, social responsibility and lifelong learning. Most importantly, the fortnight encouraged the school boys to look at literacy from a broader perspective. They came to understand that being literate is not simply about knowing how to read and write; it is about being able to understand, think, communicate, make informed decisions and continue learning throughout life.

The enthusiastic participation of the school community reflected the school’s commitment to nurturing informed, confident and responsible citizens.

The celebration concluded with the inspiring message:

“Participate – Become Literate – Make India Proud.”