International Literacy Day: Promoting Literacy for a World in Transition

International Literacy Day is celebrated every year on September 8th to raise awareness about the importance of literacy and to promote the advancement of literacy skills around the world. The day was first celebrated in 1966 by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

According to UNESCO, In low- and middle-income countries, the share of 10-year-old children who cannot read and understand a simple text with comprehension has increased from 57 percent in 2019 to an estimated 70 percent in 2022. This not only affects their ability to read and write but also their ability to fully participate in society and access opportunities for education and employment.

This year’s International Literacy Day will be celebrated worldwide under the theme, ‘Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies’. This theme focuses on expanding the global sustainable literacy program.

Targeting SDG 4: Quality Education, ADRA Bangladesh is working rigorously to ensure primary education for underprivileged slum children through its education program across the country. ADRA Bangladesh is working untiringly to make the education program sustainable. ADRA Bangladesh is expanding its support for slum children across the country through its Children Sponsorship Program (CSP), where ADRA provides financial support for the slum children so they can continue their higher education after completing their primary education.

International Literacy Day serves as a reminder that literacy is not just a basic skill, but a fundamental human right. By promoting literacy and a sustainable education system, we can help individuals and communities reach their full potential and contribute to a more equitable and just society.