International Literacy Day: When is International Literacy Day?
by Kavitha | Updated Sep 07, 2023
International Literacy Day
International Literacy Day, observed every September 8th since 1967, highlights the critical importance of literacy as a human right and a catalyst for personal and societal development. It was established by UNESCO to raise global awareness about literacy challenges and opportunities.
This annual event features different themes each year, focusing on issues like poverty reduction, healthcare improvement, economic growth, and social inclusion through literacy. Governments, institutions, and communities worldwide showcase literacy programs and engage in activities like workshops and reading campaigns.
International Literacy Day evaluates progress in literacy initiatives and identifies areas needing further attention to achieve global education and development goals. Ultimately, it unites people worldwide in their commitment to advancing literacy and empowering individuals to contribute to their communities and society as a whole.
When is International Literacy Day?
International Literacy Day is observed annually on September 8th. It was officially declared by UNESCO (the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) on October 26, 1966, during the 14th session of UNESCO's General Conference. The first celebration of International Literacy Day took place in 1967.
This day was established to emphasize the critical importance of literacy for individuals, communities, and societies worldwide. It serves as an annual reminder of the need for intensified efforts to promote literacy and eradicate illiteracy, as well as to highlight the role of literacy in achieving various societal goals, including sustainable development and social inclusion.
Significance of International Literacy Day
Promotion of Literacy: International Literacy Day serves as a global platform to promote literacy and education. It highlights the value of being literate and educated, emphasizing that literacy is not merely a skill but a fundamental human right.
Global Awareness: The day fosters global awareness about the challenges and opportunities related to literacy. It encourages discussions and initiatives to address issues such as illiteracy, lack of access to education, and the digital divide.
Empowerment: Literacy empowers individuals to access information, make informed decisions, and participate actively in their communities and societies. It is a tool for personal development, self-expression, and social engagement.
Gender Equality: International Literacy Day recognizes that literacy is closely linked to gender equality. It highlights the importance of providing equal educational opportunities for all, irrespective of gender, and aims to reduce gender disparities in literacy rates.
Poverty Alleviation: Literacy is a key factor in poverty reduction and economic development. It equips individuals with skills that enhance their employability, income-earning potential, and overall quality of life.
Health Improvement: Literacy plays a vital role in improving health outcomes. It enables individuals to access health information, make healthy choices, and understand medical instructions, contributing to better healthcare practices and outcomes.
Social Inclusion: International Literacy Day promotes social inclusion by ensuring that marginalized and disadvantaged populations have access to education and literacy programs. It strives to reduce disparities and create more inclusive societies.
Sustainable Development: Literacy is integrated into the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). International Literacy Day reinforces the importance of literacy in achieving these global goals, including quality education (SDG 4).
Advocacy: It provides a platform for organizations, governments, and individuals to advocate for policies and initiatives that support literacy and education. It encourages collaboration to address literacy challenges.
Historical Significance: The history of International Literacy Day reflects the global commitment to combating illiteracy and using literacy as a tool for empowerment and social progress.
Theme of the International Literacy Day
The theme for International Literacy Day in 2023, "Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies," underscores the pivotal role of literacy in addressing the challenges posed by our rapidly changing world. It emphasizes the profound significance of literacy as the bedrock upon which inclusive, peaceful, just, and sustainable societies can be constructed.
This theme aligns closely with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4) on education and lifelong learning. International Literacy Day 2023 serves as a crucial platform to expedite progress toward achieving SDG4 while inviting a global contemplation of how literacy can contribute to the creation of a more harmonious and equitable world.
The central message of this theme lies in recognizing literacy not solely as a skill but as a transformative tool. It empowers individuals and communities to adapt to evolving circumstances, engage actively in societal affairs, and foster positive change. Moreover, literacy serves as a catalyst for inclusivity, peace, and sustainability by bridging divides, promoting understanding, and enabling informed decisions across diverse populations.
The theme for International Literacy Day in 2023 reinforces the idea that literacy is the cornerstone for thriving in a dynamic world. It underscores the potential of literacy to drive positive transformation, ultimately paving the way for a more equitable, peaceful, and sustainable global society.
History of International Literacy Day
The history of International Literacy Day highlights key milestones and developments in the observance of this global event, emphasizing the growing recognition of literacy's significance in advancing societies and addressing global challenges:
1965 - International Literacy Day is Conceived:
International literacy becomes a subject of discussion at the World Conference of Ministers of Education on the Eradication of Illiteracy, held in Tehran, Iran. This conference marks the initial steps toward addressing global illiteracy.
1966 - International Literacy Day Comes About:
UNESCO officially declares September 8th as International Literacy Day. The purpose is to remind the international community of the importance of literacy at the individual, community, and societal levels. This declaration marks the birth of a dedicated day to address literacy-related issues.
1967 - First International Literacy Day:
Governments, schools, and communities worldwide participate in activities aimed at finding effective ways to combat illiteracy at the local level. The first International Literacy Day sets a precedent for global engagement in literacy promotion.
1990 - International Literacy Year:
The critical role of literacy is highlighted at the World Conference on Education for All in Jomtien, Thailand. This event elevates the focus on literacy and emphasizes the need for comprehensive efforts to promote education and literacy on a global scale.
2015 - The Incheon Declaration:
World leaders adopt the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at the World Education Forum held in Incheon, Republic of Korea. These goals include a dedicated target (SDG 4) to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all, further underscoring the importance of literacy in achieving sustainable development.
2017 - Literacy in a Digital World:
International Literacy Day shifts its focus to the literacy skills necessary to navigate digital-mediated societies. As the world becomes increasingly connected through technology, digital literacy becomes a crucial component of overall literacy efforts.
Throughout this timeline, International Literacy Day has evolved to address the changing needs of societies, from combatting illiteracy to embracing digital literacy. It continues to serve as a vital platform for promoting literacy, raising awareness, and advocating for policies and initiatives that support education and lifelong learning on a global scale.
International Literacy Day - FAQs
International Literacy Day, observed on September 8th, emphasizes the importance of literacy as a human right and a catalyst for personal and societal development.
UNESCO declared September 8 as International Literacy Day on October 26, 1966, during its 14th General Conference. The first celebration took place in 1967.
It raises global awareness about literacy's role in poverty reduction, healthcare improvement, gender equality, and more, advocating for quality education and social development.
The theme for 2023 is "Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies," highlighting literacy's role in societal resilience and inclusivity.
It ensures marginalized and disadvantaged populations have access to education and literacy programs, striving to reduce disparities and create more inclusive societies.