Held under the theme “Literacy for People, Planet and Prosperity,” this year’s edition was celebrated in Cameroon on 21 September 2026, following a week of activities dedicated to promoting literacy and lifelong learning.
The official closing ceremony, held at the Yaoundé I Council, was presided over by Dr Adams Daniel, Secretary General of the Ministry of Basic Education. It brought together stakeholders involved in literacy and non-formal education to reflect on progress achieved, share experiences from functional literacy centres, and discuss the challenges that remain.
On this occasion, the UNESCO Regional Office for Central Africa delivered the message of the Director-General of UNESCO, highlighting the essential role of literacy in empowering individuals, building inclusive societies and achieving sustainable development.
The celebration also featured the distribution of learning kits to participants from functional literacy centres, as well as visits to exhibition stands showcasing products and achievements from these centres. These activities highlighted the skills acquired by learners and the opportunities created through functional literacy.
Progress recorded globally reflects the impact of efforts made over recent decades. Between 1975 and 2024, the youth literacy rate increased from 75% to 93%, while the adult literacy rate rose from 65% to 88%.
Sixty years after the establishment of International Literacy Day, UNESCO continues to promote literacy as a vital driver of inclusion, empowerment and development. In Cameroon, the UNESCO Regional Office for Central Africa reiterated its readiness to support national initiatives aimed at strengthening functional literacy and non-formal basic education, with a view to expanding learning opportunities for all.
