International Literacy Day takes place today, 8 September, providing an opportunity to recognise the importance of literacy and the role it continues to play throughout people's lives. UNESCO has marked the day every year since 1967, and the 2026 celebration marks its 60th anniversary. This year's theme is “Literacy for people, the planet and prosperity.”
Literacy is about more than the ability to read and write. It provides a foundation for learning, accessing information, participating in society and developing further skills. UNESCO describes literacy as a fundamental human right and an important foundation for acquiring broader knowledge and skills.
For adults, continuing to develop literacy and communication skills can support confidence in everyday life as well as education and employment. Reading information, completing forms, understanding instructions, communicating clearly and navigating digital services are all examples of skills that people may use regularly.
Adult education can provide a supportive environment for strengthening these abilities while also opening the door to learning in other areas. A course does not have to begin with a career objective. It can be an opportunity to build confidence, explore an interest or prepare for further study.
The meaning of literacy is also expanding as more aspects of everyday life move online. Digital literacy involves being able to find, understand, evaluate and use information through digital technologies.
For adult learners, developing digital confidence can make it easier to access services, communicate online, complete applications and participate in education and employment. UNESCO's 2026 International Literacy Day programme places particular emphasis on the changing literacy landscape and emerging challenges.
One of the most important messages behind International Literacy Day is that learning does not have an age limit. Adults may return to education after many years away from formal study, learn a new subject for personal interest or develop skills that support a career change.
Even a short course can be a starting point. Developing one skill can build confidence to take on another, creating a pathway towards further education, professional development or a completely new area of interest.
Courses give adult learners structure, guidance and an opportunity to learn alongside other people. Depending on the subject, learning can take place in the classroom, online, in the evening or through flexible part-time study.
For someone who has been considering returning to education, International Literacy Day is a useful reminder that there is no requirement to have followed a traditional educational route. Learning can begin with a single course that matches your interests, experience and goals.
UNESCO notes that despite progress, at least 739 million young people and adults worldwide lacked basic literacy skills in 2024. The figures underline why literacy remains an important global issue while also highlighting the connection between basic skills and lifelong learning.
International Literacy Day is therefore about more than celebrating reading and writing. It is a reminder of the opportunities that education can create and the importance of making learning accessible throughout life.
International Literacy Day offers a chance to reflect on the skills we already have and consider what we might like to learn next. For some adults, that could mean improving core skills. For others, it could mean developing digital abilities, studying a professional subject or exploring a completely new interest.
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