International Literacy Day 2024: History, Meaning, Theme, Wishes, Quotes and How to Celebrate

International Literacy Day, celebrated every year on 8 September, is a UNESCO initiative that highlights the importance of literacy as a fundamental human right and a matter of dignity. Since 1967, this day serves to remember the global need to promote literacy and work to build more literate and sustainable societies. It raises awareness of the essential role of literacy in empowering people and promoting social development.

International Literacy Day 2024: Theme

The theme of International Literacy Day 2024 is “Promoting multilingual education: literacy for mutual understanding and peace.” According to UNESCO, this approach will harness the transformative potential of literacy to foster mutual understanding, peace and social cohesion.

International Literacy Day 2024: Quotes

• “The roots of education are bitter, but the fruits are sweet.” – Aristotle
• “Education is what remains after one has forgotten what one has learned in school.” – Albert Einstein
• “On the subject of education… I can only say that I consider it the most important subject in which we can engage as a people.” – Abraham Lincoln
• “Education is the ability to listen to almost anything without losing self-control and self-confidence.” – Robert Frost
• “You cannot stop me. I will receive my education either at home, at school or anywhere else.” – Malala Yousafzai

International Literacy Day 2024: Wishes

• Education is the door that opens, discovers, revitalizes and invents a new world for you. I wish you a happy International Literacy Day.
• The foundation of every society is education, so a key to a better society begins with literacy. Happy International Literacy Day!
• On this International Literacy Day, let us spread the word about the importance of education to each and every human being in the world.
• Let education lead you towards your passion and motivate you for a better future. Happy International Literacy Day!
• The only way to bring about positive change is by educating everyone, irrespective of caste and class. On this International Literacy Day, pledge to do your part.

International Literacy Day 2024: How to celebrate it

International Literacy Day 2024 will be celebrated in person and online at local, regional, national and global levels. The global celebration will be hosted by UNESCO on 9 and 10 September in Yaoundé, Cameroon. It will include a global conference and the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes award ceremony.

In addition to this, you can participate in discussions about current literacy issues. These discussions not only provide an opportunity to hear and learn about the challenges facing our world, but also encourage critical thinking about possible solutions.

In addition to that, students can also contribute to the betterment of society by donating books to public libraries, adoption centers, donation centers, or any other place where people from diverse backgrounds can access these books.

International Literacy Day 2024: History

International Literacy Day originated at the World Conference of Ministers of Education held in Tehran in 1965. However, it was not until 1966 that UNESCO officially declared 8 September as International Literacy Day. At that time, the world was facing major challenges such as poverty, illiteracy, unemployment and inadequate healthcare. In 2015, the celebration of this day became part of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) agenda, highlighting the vital role of literacy in global development.

International Literacy Day 2024: Importance

According to UNESCO, “literacy is the best cure” and is the key to ensuring that all people have the right to education. Each year, UNESCO highlights different aspects of literacy in a changing world through various themes. This year, the organization is focusing on addressing literacy challenges in multilingual contexts to promote lasting peace.

Solutions to improve policies, lifelong learning systems, governance and practices are also discussed. Furthermore, literacy is a key pillar of the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, in particular Sustainable Development Goal 4.