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ISLAMABAD, September 8, 2026: Pakistan marked the 60th anniversary of International Literacy Day with a national event at Allama Iqbal Open University in Islamabad.
The Ministry of Federal Education and Professional Training organised the event with UNESCO, the National Commission for Human Development (NCHD), UNICEF and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).
More than 200 representatives attended the event. They included federal and provincial officials, UN agencies, development partners and academics.
The gathering reviewed six decades of literacy efforts in Pakistan. Participants also discussed ways to expand learning opportunities and promote inclusive development.
The 2026 theme is “Literacy for People, the Planet and Prosperity.” It highlights literacy as a key tool for better livelihoods, sustainable development and social inclusion.
Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui addressed the gathering as chief guest.
He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to tackling illiteracy and the challenge of out-of-school children.
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The minister also stressed the need for joint efforts. He said children, young people and adults should all have access to learning opportunities.
UNESCO Representative in Pakistan Fuad Pashayev also addressed the event.
He described literacy as a fundamental human right. He also linked literacy with dignity, opportunity and sustainable development.
Pashayev called for stronger efforts to bring out-of-school children into education. He also stressed lifelong learning opportunities for young people and adults.
UNICEF Deputy Representative for Programmes Sharmeela Rassool highlighted the importance of literacy in education reform.
She said literacy gives children the skills needed to learn, participate in their communities and shape their futures.
However, many children in Pakistan still struggle to develop basic learning skills.
Rassool called for greater investment in teachers and quality learning environments. She also urged education authorities to reach underserved children more effectively.
NCHD Chairman and MNA Iftikhar Sadiq highlighted the organisation’s work in literacy and non-formal education.
Over the past two decades, NCHD has expanded community-based Adult Literacy Centers and Non-Formal Basic Education Schools.
The programmes focus on women, rural communities and other underserved groups.
NCHD has also developed local learning materials and trained teachers. Its community partnerships aim to expand access to education at the grassroots level.
JICA Deputy Chief of its Pakistan Office Takayuki Sugawara reaffirmed Japan’s support for literacy and non-formal education.
He highlighted JICA’s Advancing Quality Alternative Learning (AQAL) Project. The project works with governments and partners to expand alternative learning opportunities.
A major highlight of the event was the launch of the “Each One, Teach One” mobile application.
NCHD developed the app to support literacy through digital technology. It aims to make learning more accessible and strengthen community-based literacy programmes.
Participants welcomed the use of digital tools in literacy initiatives.
They also stressed the need for sustained investment and stronger partnerships. Innovative approaches, they said, can help reach children, youth and adults who remain underserved.
UNESCO proclaimed International Literacy Day in 1966. The first observance took place in 1967.
The day is marked every year on September 8. It highlights literacy as a foundation for inclusive and sustainable societies.
The 60th anniversary event in Islamabad renewed the call for collective action.
Pakistan, UN agencies, development partners and academic institutions are seeking stronger cooperation to expand literacy and lifelong learning.
The global 60th anniversary celebrations are taking place on September 8–9, 2026, in collaboration with the Government of Mexico.
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