International Literacy Day is celebrated annually around the world on 8 September and Oxford University Press observes the day in support and endorsement of literacy in all its forms.

Founded by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1967, International Literacy Day celebrations have since taken place across the globe to remind the international community of the importance of literacy as a matter of dignity and human rights, and to advance the literacy agenda towards a more literate and sustainable society. (1)

In its simplest definition, ‘literacy’ refers to the ability to read and write. In broader terms, it encompasses ways of thinking and doing reading and writing with the purpose of understanding and expressing thoughts or ideas in written form within specific contexts.

 Global literacy is a cause for celebration since the rate for adults 15 years and above stands at 86,3% in 2023. (2) While, on the surface, this is a successful statistic, closer inspection reveals a deeply unequal divide.