UNESCO and Partners Mark 60 Years of International Literacy Day, Renew Commitment to Advancing Literacy Across Pakistan
Published September 08, 2026 | 09:10 PM
ISLAMABAD, (APP – UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News – 8th Sep, 2026) The Government of Pakistan, through the Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training, in collaboration with UNESCO, the National Commission for Human Development (NCHD), UNICEF and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), commemorated the 60th anniversary of International Literacy Day (ILD) at Allama Iqbal Open University, Islamabad, under the theme “Literacy for People, the Planet and Prosperity.”
The event was organized by NCHD with the support of UNESCO, UNICEF and JICA.
It brought together more than 200 representatives from federal and provincial governments, United Nations agencies, development partners and academia to:
- Reflect on progress made in literacy over the past six decades.
- Deliberate on ways to strengthen literacy as a means of creating better opportunities for individuals.
- Promote sustainable development and contribute to inclusive prosperity.
The 2026 theme highlights the transformative role of literacy in:
- Improving people’s lives.
- Fostering inclusive and sustainable societies.
- Creating opportunities for livelihoods and economic development.
The 60th anniversary also provided an opportunity to:
- Recognize achievements in literacy.
- Take stock of persistent challenges.
- Discuss partnerships required to advance literacy for all.
The event was addressed by:
- Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training.
- Fuad Pashayev, UNESCO Representative in Pakistan and Head of Office.
- Ms. Sharmeela Rassool, Deputy Representative – Programmes, UNICEF.
- Takayuki Sugawara, Deputy Chief, JICA Pakistan Office.
- Mr. Iftikhar Sadiq, MNA and Chairman, National Commission for Human Development (NCHD).
Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, addressing the gathering, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to collaborative efforts aimed at addressing the challenges of out-of-school children and illiteracy, ensuring no one is left behind.
Fuad Pashayev underscored the importance of literacy as a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of sustainable development.
"Literacy is far more than the ability to read and write, it is a fundamental human right and a powerful foundation for dignity, opportunity and sustainable development. As we mark the 60th anniversary of International Literacy Day, we must renew our collective commitment…"
