International Literacy Day is being observed today, under the theme ‘Promoting Literacy in the Digital Era.’ The day, recognized globally since 1966 by UNESCO, highlights literacy as a basic human right and a key driver of social, economic, and cultural development. This year’s theme stresses the importance of combining traditional literacy with digital literacy to ensure equitable and inclusive access to education in an increasingly technology-driven world.
Digital literacy: The need of the hour
With technology transforming how people communicate, access information, and learn, digital literacy has become as essential as reading and writing. UNESCO estimates that around 739 million people worldwide lack basic literacy skills, many of whom are also digitally illiterate. This gap threatens to exclude vulnerable communities from educational, employment, and social opportunities. The theme of this year’s observance aims to raise awareness and promote initiatives that equip individuals with the tools needed to engage meaningfully in a digital world.
Global efforts to promote literacy
UNESCO leads the global celebrations with workshops, discussions, and the International Literacy Prizes, which honor innovative literacy programs from across the world. The focus remains on advancing educational opportunities, reducing illiteracy, and addressing digital skill disparities.
In India, the Ministry of Education’s Department of School Education and Literacy is observing International Literacy Week from September 1 to 8, 2025, under the ULLAS (Universal Literacy and Learning for All Students) initiative. Events such as awareness drives, oath ceremonies, and skill-building workshops are being conducted to improve both traditional and digital literacy among students nationwide.
Local initiatives in Karnataka
In Karnataka, organizations have taken this opportunity to promote literacy at the grassroots level. In Mangaluru, the Jana Shikshana Trust, in partnership with Jana Jeevana and Balepuni, launched the Mane Mane Granthalaya (Library in Every Home) campaign on September 6. The initiative aims to cultivate a reading culture and counteract excessive mobile phone usage among youth by distributing books, starting with copies of the Constitution, to households.
A community book bank is being created to ensure that every participating family has access to at least 50 books. Additionally, an ‘Odugara Vedike’ (Readers’ Forum) platform will encourage regular reading sessions and discussions, helping foster a lifelong reading habit.
A call for action
The observance of International Literacy Day 2025 serves as a reminder that literacy is more than the ability to read and write—it is the foundation for accessing opportunities and improving life outcomes. Integrating digital literacy into educational curricula, improving internet connectivity, and providing affordable access to devices are essential steps toward closing the literacy gap.
Experts emphasize that addressing both traditional and digital literacy is crucial for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education for All). Every effort, whether large or small, can empower individuals, strengthen communities, and contribute to national development.
Looking ahead
As the world celebrates International Literacy Day, it is vital to extend literacy beyond classrooms and into homes, workplaces, and digital platforms. Literacy empowers individuals, promotes equality, and nurtures innovation. On this day, governments, organizations, and citizens alike are urged to come together to ensure that no one is left behind in the digital age.