Abstract

Literacy is a condition whereby one can successfully function at certain levels in a society where literacy plays a role in providing access to power and resources. Thus, what counts as literacy is determined by the cultural, political, and historical contexts of the community in which it is used. The purpose of education is the preparation for life and for giving an individual wholesome development. Functional literacy is therefore, a very crucial outcome of education. The paper discusses literacy in primary and secondary levels of education in Nigeria and its impact on individual and national development and proposes ways of improving literacy in schools.

Key words: Literacy, education.