On 8 September 2025, the world marks International Literacy Day, first declared by UNESCO in 1966 to recognise literacy as a basic human right and a cornerstone of inclusive, sustainable societies. This year’s theme, “Promoting literacy in the digital era”, highlights the need to equip people not only with reading and writing skills, but also digital and vocational competencies to navigate the ever-evolving world and enhanced digitalisation. The challenge remains stark: 739 million young people and adults worldwide still cannot read or write, with least developed countries averaging literacy rates of just 65%. There is a strong correlation between illiteracy and poverty, which underscores education’s essential role to break cycles of poverty and help build the foundation of resilient, sustainable and peaceful societies.
Countries in Asia and Europe share similar challenges and opportunities, with generally high literacy rates exceeding 90%. The ongoing digital transition requires bold reforms to keep education systems aligned with new technologies and minimise the “digital divide” where a lack of access to technology and reliable internet connection could leave millions behind. Both regions recognise the importance of education, as well as digital and vocational literacy for future employment and societal inclusion. This common ground drives cooperation through initiatives such as Erasmus+, EU-ASEAN SCOPE-HE, EU Global Gateway strategy, DUO-Korea and DUO-Singapore Fellowship. Within the EU, the initiative “Upskilling Pathways” targets adults who left education early or have low levels of skills, knowledge and competencies.
The ASEM Education, ASEM-DUO and ASEM Lifelong Learning processes remain active alongside ministerial-level meeting, fellowship programmes and international conferences. ASEF contributes to these processes through its flagship initiatives such as the ASEF Regional Conference on Higher Education (ARC), ASEFInnoLab and ASEFClassNet.
Sources:
UNESCO, 2017, ‘Literacy Rates Continue to Rise from One Generation to the Next’, UNESCO
For real! Learning to read well helps us understand so many new things and feel more confident in society.
Absolutely! Literacy is the foundation that unlocks knowledge, critical thinking, and self-expression. Across Asia and Europe, improving reading skills empowers individuals to engage more fully in education, the workforce, and civic life, boosting both personal confidence and social inclusion.
As someone from Asia, I’ve seen how important literacy is. It’s not just about reading and writing, but about opening doors to a better life.
Indeed. Literacy is a key step for a world of opportunities. It allows us to build a better, more enriching life for ourselves and our community.
* As someone from Asia, I’ve seen how important literacy Growing up in Asia, many friends couldn’t go to school because of low literacy rates. Literacy means hope and freedom to dream bigger.
That’s so universally true. Literacy is an enabler to turn our hope and dreams, small and big, into reality.
As a student, I believe literacy gives us the tools to build a stronger future. What can we do together to support those still struggling to learn?
That’s a very relevant question. Every bit of help makes a difference. For example, we can volunteer as tutors or at local libraries to make a direct impact.