International Literacy Day 2025: History, Theme & Slogan

World Literacy Day Slogan 2024  “Empower Minds, Change Lives: Celebrate World Literacy Day!” 

Since 1967, International Literacy Day has been observed annually to remind the world of the critical importance of literacy in fostering compassion, peace, and lasting change. Literacy is recognized as a fundamental human right, giving individuals the ability to participate fully in society, enjoy their freedoms, and promote understanding across diverse cultures, religions, and communities. 

In 2025, the global literacy rate for individuals aged 15 and above stands at approximately 87.01%, reflecting steady progress. However, challenges remain, particularly in regions such as Sub-Saharan Africa, where literacy rates lag behind the global average. This year’s theme, “Promoting Literacy for a World in Transition: Building the Foundation for Sustainable and Peaceful Societies,” emphasizes the need for literacy as the key to navigating a changing world and building inclusive, resilient communities. 

What is International Literacy Day?

International Literacy Day (ILD) is observed every year on 8th September to raise global awareness about the importance of literacy as a fundamental human right and a key factor in building more inclusive, peaceful, and sustainable societies. 

Established by UNESCO in 1967, this day serves as a reminder that literacy is not just about reading and writing, but also about dignity, empowerment, and the ability to participate fully in society. Literacy opens doors to better education, employment opportunities, and improved health outcomes, while also reducing poverty and promoting gender equality. 

International Literacy Day quotes

Here’s some of the World Literacy Day quotes:  

• Education is the most powerful weapon with which you can change the world. ~Nelson Mandela  
• Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever. ~Gandhi  
• Let us remember: One book, one pen, one child, and one teacher can change the world. ~Malala Yousafzi  

International Literacy Day Celebrations 2025

This is the day when it will be an opportunity to show the literacy agenda in Cameroon and Africa in the context of the African Union’s Year of Education and beyond.  There will be a global celebration held on the 9-10th of September 2025 in Yaoundé, Cameroon. It will include:  

• Global Conference.  
• Award ceremony of the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes.  
• Annual meeting of the Global Alliance of Literacy within the Framework of Lifelong Learning (GAL).  
• Meetings of the Action Research on Measuring Literacy and Alternative Education (RAMAED).  

What is the purpose of World Literacy Day?

It raises awareness of the history and significance of literacy. It also recognises the contributions and impacts the community has made in improving world issues, such as promoting peace and harmony.   

World Literacy Day Activities and Programs

There are different activities and initiatives carried out in different parts of the world to show the importance of this day for humankind. Let’s take a look at the international literacy day activities and initiatives by universities.   

United Kingdom

• Top universities like Oxford University and Cambridge University usually organise workshops and seminars focusing on literacy challenges and discussions in developing countries.   
• They also have these reading initiatives to encourage reading through outreach programs to encourage children and elderly people.   
• Universities host public lectures featuring renowned educators, authors, and experts discussing the sensitivity and importance of these subjects in today’s world. 

United States

• The top universities like Harvard University, Stanford University and New York University try to collaborate with local schools to organise reading programs, book donations and even give tutoring.   
• They research literacy rates, challenges, and ways to improve them in marginalized communities. 
• Community events are held such as:  book fairs, storytelling, discussions, and author meet and greets to engage the public with the university.   

Australia

• The top universities like the University of Sydney, University of Melbourne, and University of Queensland often conduct workshops focusing on digital literacy, language learning and writing.   
• They also work on special initiatives for the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, promoting culturally relevant educational resources.  

Canada

• Top universities such as the University of Toronto, McGill University usually work with NGOs, and local libraries through many initiatives and programs in underprivileged areas.   
• Some of these and many other universities in Canada may launch campaigns advocating for government policies that support literacy and education, often culminating in a series of public events on campus.  
• They also host many workshops for people who are new to the country such as immigrants and refugees by helping them learn the language and the education system of Canada.   

Reminder 

If you are a student, this is one of the best ways to contribute your knowledge by helping those around you who are not literate. Try to raise awareness and be a changemaker for the world to come. We need to world to be as one and equal. They need guidance, support and kind people who can teach and show them the light of life. They deserve a better life. We should all be grateful that we are in the light and not kept in darkness. Be that light the world needs more than ever!   

Let’s strive to make the world a better place through small initiatives, i.e., by creating awareness, helping and sharing our knowledge and skills with those who are in need!