UNESCO established International Literacy Day in 1967 as a way for communities all around the globe to raise awareness of literacy as the foundation for justice, peace, and sustainability in the world. International Literacy Day is observed on September 8 every year.

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

There is a pressing need to harness the transformative potential of literacy for promoting mutual understanding, social cohesion, and peace. In today’s world, in which multilingualism is a common practice for many, empowering people by adopting a first language-based, multilingual approach to literacy development and education is particularly effective for its cognitive, pedagogical, and socio-economic benefits. Such an approach can help promote mutual understanding and respect, while solidifying communal identities and collective histories.

ILD2024 will unpack issues related to literacy in multilingual contexts for achieving lasting peace and will explore possible solutions for enhancing policies, lifelong learning systems, governance, programmes, and practices. ILD2024 will be celebrated in-person and online at the global, regional, national, and local levels. 

https://www.unesco.org/en/days/literacy

Ways to Observe International Literacy Day

• Follow NCL on LinkedIn and Facebook for International Literacy Day news and updates.
• Use the day to celebrate the ways that your program or organization supports adult learners in developing literacy skills. Use the hashtags #internationalliteracyday #literacyday #celebrateliteracy #literacyforall in your social media communications.
• Invite your adult learners to create digital stories about their experiences with literacy for mutual understanding in the language(s) and culture(s) they are familiar with. Encourage them to share their stories on social media or on your class/program webpage if they are willing.
• Learn more about the world literacy situation on UNESCO’s What You Need to Know About Literacy resource page. Use the information as a conversation starter with your adult learners and with colleagues.
• Read Dr. Christy Rhodes’ post on the U.S. role in international education, Reengaging with the International Adult Learning and Education Community.