World Literacy Day is not just another date on the calendar, but it is a reminder of the power of learning and the promise of knowledge. International Literacy Day is celebrated on September 8th annually to raise public awareness about the importance of literacy for personal dignity, human rights, and societal development and to highlight the ongoing global challenges and progress in achieving literacy for all, as an integral part of lifelong learning.
And this year’s celebration of World Literacy Day became even more special as Prof. Manoshi RoyChowdhury, Co- Chairperson of the Techno India Group, was honoured with the Siksha Samman Award for Excellence in Institutions & Building Education, presented by Lions International.
One of the most inspiring moments of the event was, the platform was shared with Prof. Manoshi RoyChowfhury and the two other towering figures of academia and research, whom are– Prof. Dr. N. K. Chakraborty and Prof. Sanghamitra Bandyopadhyay. Both of them were conferred with the Lifetime Achievement Award and rightly so their lifelong contributions to knowledge, education and institution-building have shaped countless lives and set benchmarks of excellence.
Their stories of dedication and vision reinforced the idea to the audience that while awards recognize the work of individuals, the real reward lies in the ripple effect of positive change in education, which creates in society.
“Education, after all, is never a solo effort. It is a collaborative journey where every teacher, every learner and every supporter adds value to the larger picture.” Said by Prof. Manoshi RoyChowdhury.
She also addressed, “Too often, we think of education as something that begins and ends with books and exams. But true education goes far beyond that. It is about shaping values that last a lifetime, sparking curiosity that fuels innovation and creating resilience that prepares young minds for an uncertain future.
This belief has always guided my work—whether it is institution building, mentoring students, or designing initiatives that bridge learning gaps. The award is a reminder that when education is approached as a mission rather than a process, it can leave an impact that echoes beyond the four walls of a classroom.”
Every audience must have felt that, awards and recognitions are motivating, but the true joy comes from the knowledge that together, we, as a mother, as teacher or as a industrialist or many more are shaping futures and empowering the next generation to dream bigger, aim higher and build stronger communities
World Literacy Day serves as a gentle reminder that the journey of education is far from complete. There are still many young minds waiting for opportunities, many institutions that need strengthening, and many challenges that call for innovative solutions.
Prof. Manoshi RoyChowdhury sharing some motivational and also inspiring words to the audience and the whole students’ world and said, “As I reflect on this recognition, I am reminded of a simple truth: education is not just a personal achievement; it is a collective responsibility. Each of us has a role to play—whether as educators, learners, or supporters. On this World Literacy Day, let us pledge to continue nurturing the seeds of knowledge, compassion, and creativity in every corner of society.”
The Siksha Samman Award is not an end but a reminder to every person that the work continues. With humility, gratitude and determination, everyone should look forward to building futures that inspire, institutions that endure and communities that thrive.