2024 International Literacy Day Theme and its Background

Every year since 1967, the 8th of September has been observed as International Literacy Day worldwide. The day is observed to remind the public, the government, and other stakeholders about the importance of literacy, its contribution to developing a person's personality, and also its role in creating a just and equitable society.

In India, a person seven years or older who cannot read or write a language is considered illiterate.

According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), in 2022, around one out of seven adults above 15 years of age were illiterate, and around 25 crore children of the 6- 18 age group were out of school. 

Background to the International Literacy Day 

The UNESCO General Conference held in 1966 passed a resolution to observe 8 September as International Literacy Day.  

The first International Literacy Day was observed in 1967.

Theme of the International Literacy Day 2023

The theme of International Literacy Day 2024 is "Promoting multilingual education: Literacy for mutual understanding and peace." 

Multilingualism refers to a person's ability to read, write, or speak more than one language. In the increasingly globalised world, multilingualism helps connect diverse people, promotes understanding of each other's cultures, increases mutual respect, and promotes peace and brotherhood in the world.  

Events related to International Literacy Day 

• In India, the Union Ministry of Education’s Department of School Education & Literacy, in collaboration with UNESCO, organised a function in New Delhi to celebrate International Literacy Day. 
• Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar was the chief guest of the function.
• Union Minister of State for Education Jayant Chaudhary, Secretary, Department of School Education & Literacy Sanjay Kumar and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.
• UNESCO, on 9&10th September 2024, will organise a function in Yaoundé, Cameroon. The UNESCO International Literacy Prize winners will be honoured and facilitated at the function.

About UNESCO

UNESCO( United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization)

Members: It has 194 Members and 12 Associate Members

Headquarters: Paris, France