Vientiane: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Thongsalith Mangnomek, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education and Sports, has issued a statement marking the 60th Anniversary of International Literacy Day, observed on September 8, 2026.
According to Lao News Agency, the statement highlights that UNESCO declared September 8 as International Literacy Day in 1966, and the 60th anniversary signifies a vital milestone in the ongoing global efforts to promote the fundamental right to education and advance social equality.
This year’s observance operates under the theme ‘Literacy for people, the planet and prosperity.’ The theme underscores literacy as a crucial foundation not only for personal development but also for environmental protection, peacebuilding, and sustainable shared prosperity.
Over the past six decades, significant progress has been made in global literacy. However, the statement notes that more than 739 million adults and young people worldwide still lack basic literacy skills, with 63% of them being women.
Additionally, rapid advances in digital transformation and artificial intelligence (AI) are reshaping societies and economies.
In this evolving context, literacy now extends beyond traditional reading, writing, and basic numeracy. It encompasses digital and AI literacy, enabling individuals to use technology safely and creatively, alongside information literacy, financial literacy, vocational skills, and green competencies.
The statement also stresses the significance of lifelong learning, which empowers citizens to adapt to global changes, develop new skills, create added value, and contribute to sustainable development.