Islamabad: The Government of Pakistan, in collaboration with UNESCO, the National Commission for Human Development (NCHD), UNICEF, and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), marked the 60th anniversary of International Literacy Day (ILD) at Allama Iqbal Open University in Islamabad. The event, organized by NCHD with support from UNESCO, UNICEF, and JICA, focused on the theme “Literacy for People, the Planet and Prosperity” and brought together over 200 representatives from government, United Nations agencies, development partners, and academia.
According to Press Information Department, the event provided a platform to reflect on literacy progress over six decades and discuss ways to enhance literacy as a tool for creating opportunities, promoting sustainable development, and fostering inclusive prosperity. The 2026 theme emphasizes the transformative power of literacy in improving lives, fostering sustainable societies, and driving economic development.
Speakers at the event included Dr. Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui, Federal Minister for Education and Professional Training; Fuad Pashayev, UNESCO Representative in Pakistan; Ms. Sharmeela Rassool, Deputy Representative – Programmes, UNICEF; Takayuki Sugawara, Deputy Chief, JICA Pakistan Office; and Mr. Iftikhar Sadiq, Chairman, NCHD. Dr. Siddiqui reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to addressing out-of-school children and illiteracy. Fuad Pashayev highlighted literacy as a fundamental human right and a cornerstone of sustainable development.
Takayuki Sugawara emphasized JICA’s commitment to literacy and non-formal education, highlighting the Advancing Quality Alternative Learning (AQAL) Project’s role in expanding learning opportunities. Mr. Iftikhar Sadiq discussed NCHD’s efforts in bridging policy and community needs through Adult Literacy Centers and Non-Formal Basic Education Schools, focusing on women, rural populations, and marginalized communities.
Ms. Sharmeela Rassool stressed the importance of literacy in education reform, calling for greater investment in teachers and learning environments to effectively reach underserved children. The event also saw the launch of the “Each One, Teach One” mobile application by NCHD, aimed at promoting literacy through digital technology.
The observance of International Literacy Day, first proclaimed by UNESCO in 1966, emphasized the importance of collective action among the Government of Pakistan, United Nations agencies, development partners, and academia to advance literacy in the country. The global celebration of the 60th anniversary is being held in collaboration with the Government of Mexico.