International Literacy Day 2025: Date, Theme, and Global Significance

Every year on September 8, the world comes together to mark International Literacy Day (ILD)—a powerful reminder of the transformative power of literacy and the ongoing global commitment to ensure education as a basic human right. In 2025, the day is observed under the theme: “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era”, alongside a secondary theme in some regions—“Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace.”

Both themes reflect how literacy is evolving in the 21st century, addressing the digital divide and the importance of inclusive, culturally relevant education.

Why Is International Literacy Day Celebrated on September 8?

The roots of this observance date back to a pivotal moment in 1965, when the World Conference of Ministers of Education on the Eradication of Illiteracy was held in Tehran. The event catalyzed global efforts to eliminate illiteracy and helped solidify literacy as central to human dignity, peace, and progress.

In October 1966, during its 14th General Conference, UNESCO officially declared September 8 as International Literacy Day, and the first celebration took place in 1967. The date was chosen to symbolize the beginning of the academic year in many countries and to align global attention on literacy as a cornerstone 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

This theme underscores the need to integrate digital skills with traditional literacy, as digital tools increasingly shape communication, education, and employment. It addresses challenges like,

• Digital illiteracy among marginalized communities
• Access disparities in rural and low-income regions
• Safe and meaningful digital engagement
• In a world where the digital landscape often dictates opportunity, bridging the digital divide becomes essential to achieving literacy equity.

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.

Why Literacy Still Matters Today

Despite global progress, millions of people still lack basic literacy skills, with women and rural populations disproportionately affected. According to UNESCO,

• Over 750 million adults globally remain illiterate
• Two-thirds of them are women
• Literacy gaps are strongly tied to poverty, conflict, and digital exclusion

ILD serves as a platform to,

• Celebrate progress in education
• Highlight persistent inequalities
• Mobilize support from governments, NGOs, and civil society

India’s Connection: Shared Spirit with Teachers’ Day

ILD closely follows India’s Teachers’ Day on September 5, celebrated in memory of Dr. Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan—India’s second President and an educationist. His legacy reinforces the idea that teachers and literacy are the bedrock of nation-building.

Key Takeaways for Exam

• International Literacy Day 2025
• Observed on: September 8
• Proclaimed by: UNESCO in 1966
• First celebrated: 1967
• 2025 Theme: “Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era” & “Promoting Multilingual Education: Literacy for Mutual Understanding and Peace”
• Historical origin: 1965 Tehran Conference
• SDG link: SDG 4 – Quality Education