International Literacy Day should be a celebration of
progress. However, for millions of children worldwide, it
serves as a painful reminder of the ongoing literacy
challenges that threaten their futures. This year marks 60
years since UNESCO established this day, and the theme for
2026 is “Literacy for People, the Planet, and
Prosperity.”
The World Literacy Foundation is urging
governments, organisations, and individuals to acknowledge
literacy as one of the most pressing social and economic
challenges confronting communities
worldwide.
Australia is not exempt from the global
literacy crisis. This year’s NAPLAN results showed a decline
in reading scores for students in Years 5, 7, and 9, while
the gap in performance based on location remains largely
unchanged. Approximately 70 per cent of students in major
city schools meet or exceed the expected reading standard,
in stark contrast to only 23 per cent of students in very
remote schools.
“Literacy is not simply about learning
to read; it is about unlocking opportunities, reducing
poverty, and enabling children to reach their full
potential. Yet millions of young people still lack access to
books and literacy support,” World Literacy Foundation CEO
Andrew Kay stated.
Research consistently highlights
the extensive consequences of low literacy, which contribute
to unemployment, diminished workforce participation, lower
productivity, and heightened social
disadvantage.
Among the key concerns:
- The
2026 NAPLAN results revealed a decline in reading scores for
students in Years 5, 7, and 9, with approximately one in ten
Australian students requiring additional support
(ACARA). - Around 70 per cent of students in major
city schools in Australia read at or above the expected
standard, compared to just 23 per cent in very remote
schools (ACARA, NAPLAN 2026). - Globally, 739 million
adults are unable to read or write (UNESCO Institute for
Statistics). - In low- and middle-income countries, 70
per cent of 10-year-olds cannot read and comprehend a simple
written text, an increase from 57 per cent before the
pandemic (World Bank, UNESCO, and UNICEF). - As a
result, today’s students are projected to lose a combined
total of $21 trillion in lifetime earnings, which is
equivalent to 17 per cent of global GDP (World Bank, UNESCO,
and UNICEF).
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To commemorate the occasion, the
World Literacy Foundation has launched the initiative “One
Book at a Time”, encouraging people worldwide to donate $10
to provide a book to a child who does not own
one.
“Receiving a book of their own can have a
life-changing impact for many children,” stated Mr Kay. “A
single book can ignite a lifelong passion for
reading.”
The Foundation aims to reach 500,000
children who currently do not have any books, allowing
donors to select the region to which their books will be
sent.
