International Literacy Day

International Literacy Day (ILD) is observed annually on 8 September across the world to promote literacy as a fundamental human right and to highlight its importance in advancing social and economic development. The day serves as a global reminder that literacy is essential for individual empowerment, community development, and the creation of more inclusive and sustainable societies.

Background and Origin

International Literacy Day was proclaimed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1966, following recommendations from the World Conference of Ministers of Education on the Eradication of Illiteracy, held in Tehran in 1965. The first celebration took place in 1967, marking a global commitment to combating illiteracy and promoting education for all.
The observance of the day aligns with UNESCO’s broader goal of promoting education as a key driver of peace, social progress, and human rights. It underscores that literacy extends beyond basic reading and writing—it includes the ability to understand, interpret, and engage critically with written information in everyday life.

Objectives of International Literacy Day

The key objectives of International Literacy Day are to:

• Raise awareness about the importance of literacy as a tool for human development and social inclusion.
• Promote global efforts to eliminate illiteracy through education and lifelong learning initiatives.
• Encourage policy action among governments, organisations, and communities to ensure equitable access to education.
• Celebrate progress achieved in literacy programmes while addressing the challenges that persist, especially in developing countries.

Global Context and Importance

Literacy is not merely the ability to read and write; it is an essential skill that empowers individuals to participate meaningfully in society, make informed decisions, and improve their quality of life. Despite major global progress, UNESCO estimates that over 750 million adults worldwide still lack basic literacy skills, two-thirds of whom are women.
Regions such as sub-Saharan Africa, South and West Asia, and parts of the Arab world continue to experience high rates of illiteracy due to poverty, gender inequality, and limited educational infrastructure.
The significance of literacy extends beyond individual achievement. It is critical for:

• Economic Growth: Literate populations contribute to higher productivity, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
• Gender Equality: Literacy empowers women, enabling their participation in decision-making and improving family health and education.
• Democracy and Civic Engagement: Literate citizens are better equipped to understand rights, laws, and civic responsibilities.
• Sustainable Development: Literacy supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 4, which seeks to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.”

Themes and Observances

Each year, UNESCO announces a specific theme for International Literacy Day, reflecting emerging global priorities and challenges. Themes in recent years have focused on:

• Literacy and Skills Development (2018)
• Literacy and Multilingualism (2019)
• Literacy Teaching and Learning in the COVID-19 Crisis (2020)
• Literacy for a Human-Centred Recovery (2021)
• Transforming Literacy Learning Spaces (2022)
• Promoting Literacy for a World in Transition (2023)

The annual observance includes international conferences, policy dialogues, cultural events, literacy campaigns, and award ceremonies recognising exceptional contributions to literacy promotion.

Literacy in India

In India, International Literacy Day is observed nationwide through various educational and social campaigns organised by the Ministry of Education, State Literacy Missions, and Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs).
India has made considerable progress in improving literacy rates since independence, rising from around 18% in 1951 to over 77% according to the National Statistical Office (NSO) report of 2021. However, regional disparities remain, particularly between urban and rural areas, and between men and women.
Programmes such as the National Literacy Mission (1988), Saakshar Bharat Mission (2009), and recent initiatives under the New Education Policy (NEP) 2020 aim to achieve functional literacy for all adults and integrate digital literacy as a core component of learning.

Challenges to Global Literacy

Despite international efforts, several challenges persist in achieving universal literacy:

• Poverty and Economic Inequality: Families in low-income regions often prioritise livelihood over education.
• Gender Disparities: In many countries, girls and women face cultural and structural barriers to education.
• Conflict and Displacement: Wars and humanitarian crises disrupt schooling for millions of children.
• Technological Divide: In the digital era, lack of access to technology and the internet creates new forms of illiteracy.
• Quality of Education: Even where schooling is available, poor teaching quality and lack of resources often hinder literacy acquisition.

Role of Digital and Functional Literacy

In the 21st century, the concept of literacy has expanded to include digital literacy, financial literacy, and media literacy. The ability to navigate online platforms, interpret information, and use technology responsibly is increasingly vital for social and professional participation.
Functional literacy—the practical use of reading and writing in everyday tasks such as managing finances, accessing healthcare, or understanding civic information—remains central to improving living standards.

Way Forward

To achieve universal literacy, coordinated efforts are required among governments, international organisations, educators, and communities. Key strategies include:

• Expanding access to quality primary and adult education.
• Incorporating technology to reach remote learners.
• Promoting community-based literacy programmes.
• Ensuring gender equality in educational opportunities.
• Integrating lifelong learning frameworks into national education policies.