Islamabad: On International Literacy Day, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the importance of literacy as a pivotal element for achieving sustainable development in Pakistan. The Prime Minister’s message underscored the theme “Literacy for People, Planet and Prosperity,” emphasizing that literacy empowers individuals and societies towards progress and prosperity.

According to Press Information Department, the Prime Minister expressed the country’s commitment to ensuring equal, inclusive, and quality education for all, with particular focus on digital literacy and skills development. The Federal Government is collaborating with provincial entities and stakeholders to enhance the literacy rate and provide education aligned with contemporary demands. Special programs, such as the Daanish Schools, aim to enroll out-of-school children and offer free quality education to disadvantaged groups, reflecting the government’s dedication to social development and national inclusion.

Efforts are also being made to strengthen the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) to equip the youth with globally competitive skills, facilitating dignified employment and entrepreneurship. The government stresses the importance of women’s education and empowerment as essential for inclusive national development.

The Prime Minister emphasized the role of literacy in raising public awareness about global challenges, including climate change and environmental issues. He called for a collective effort from the government, educational institutions, civil society, and the private sector to improve literacy rates and establish a quality education system for a prosperous future.