Why reading remains the foundation of progress and faith worldwide

A new report from the OECD emphasizes the enduring significance of reading as the cornerstone of learning and progress. The Digital Education Outlook 2026 underscores that direct human engagement with knowledge through reading remains indispensable. This principle echoes deeply in both faith and national development, shaping how societies grow and govern themselves.

The call to read and seek knowledge has roots stretching back centuries. Fourteen hundred years ago, the first word revealed to Prophet Muhammad was Iqra—meaning 'Read'. This command marked the beginning of the Quran's revelation, framing knowledge as an act of devotion and a path to purpose. Ramadan, the month when the Quran was revealed, reinforces this by encouraging reflection, inquiry, and continuous self-improvement.

Countries that invest in knowledge have witnessed remarkable transformation. Singapore, South Korea, and Rwanda have transitioned from poverty to prosperity by building robust education systems. Ghana, too, recognizes that its economic future hinges on a population that reads, thinks critically, and applies knowledge with discipline. Leaders grounded in understanding are crucial for accountability, as seen in Ghana's investigations into cases like the death of Charles Amissah, where rigorous inquiry remains vital.

Faith and reason often converge on this path. The Quran's opening call to engage the mind reflects a belief that true understanding comes from both devotion and disciplined learning. For many, this connection imbues knowledge with deeper meaning, shaping not just economies but also ethical leadership.

The OECD's findings resonate with long-standing traditions that place reading at the heart of progress. For nations like Ghana, cultivating a culture of knowledge could propel both economic growth and stronger governance. Without comprehensive data on every case, the broader lesson remains evident: societies flourish when they prioritize learning, inquiry, and accountability.