International Literacy Day 2025
Every year on September 8, people around the globe come together to celebrate International Literacy Day (ILD)—a meaningful reminder of how literacy can change lives and our shared commitment to making education a fundamental human right. In 2025, the theme for the day is “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era,” with an additional focus in some areas on “Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace.”
So, why do we celebrate International Literacy Day on September 8?
The origins of this observance trace back to a significant event in 1965, when the World Conference of Ministers of Education on the Eradication of Illiteracy took place in Tehran. This gathering sparked worldwide efforts to combat illiteracy and reinforced the idea that literacy is essential for human dignity, peace, and progress.
In October 1966, during its 14th General Conference, UNESCO officially designated September 8 as International Literacy Day, with the first celebration occurring in 1967. This date was chosen to coincide with the start of the academic year in many countries, shining a spotlight on literacy as a vital element of development.
Theme of 2025: Literacy in the Digital Era and Multilingualism
UNESCO’s dual themes for 2025 focus on two emerging global priorities,
1. Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era
2. Promoting Multilingual Education
Multilingual education fosters mutual understanding, enhances cognitive development, and respects cultural diversity. This focus is particularly relevant in multilingual societies, helping,
- Reduce dropout rates
- Improve educational inclusion
- Empower marginalized and indigenous communities
The theme aligns with SDG 4 (Quality Education), emphasizing that literacy is not just about reading and writing but about empowering individuals in their own languages and cultural contexts.