International Literacy Day 2026: September 8, Theme 'Literacy for People, the Planet and Prosperity'

Key facts

• International Literacy Day is observed annually on September 8.
• The theme for International Literacy Day 2026 is "Literacy for people, the planet and prosperity."
• The 2026 celebration marks the 60th anniversary of International Literacy Day.
• UNESCO declared International Literacy Day during its 14th General Conference, and the inaugural celebration was marked in 1967.
• The 2026 global celebration will be held in Chiapas, Mexico, on September 8 and 9, in cooperation with the Mexican government.
• UNESCO projects that at least 739 million children and adults globally still lack basic literacy skills.
• 4 out of 10 kids are not reading at the required level.
• According to UNESCO, the theme highlights the importance of literacy in fostering inclusivity, assisting sustainable futures, and increasing prospects for economic growth and livelihoods.
• UNESCO International Literacy Prizes will be presented during the ceremony.
• According to UNESCO, literacy is a fundamental human right that enables people to participate in society, acquire knowledge and skills, access other rights, and expand their prospects.
• The 2026 celebration will offer a chance to evaluate the progress over the last 60 years and investigate the issues that still plague literacy around the globe.