UNESCO awards six literacy prizes for impactful global programmes

On 8 September 2026, during the International Literacy Day celebrations in Chiapas, Mexico, UNESCO presented its International Literacy Prizes to six outstanding programs from Colombia, Lebanon, Mexico, the Netherlands, Nigeria, and Thailand. These awards recognize initiatives that have significantly impacted literacy development, particularly for marginalized communities. Each laureate will receive an endowment of US$30,000, a medal, and a diploma to honor their contributions. The diverse range of programs awarded emphasizes the importance of cultural relevance and community engagement in literacy efforts.

The UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize, which focuses on mother language-based literacy development, was awarded to the 'Escuelas LEO' Programme by BibloRed in Colombia. Launched in 2024, this initiative aims to provide intercultural and multilingual literacy opportunities for marginalized groups, including Indigenous Peoples and LGBTIQ+ communities in Bogotá. The program has seen enrollment rise from 320 participants in 2024 to 443 in 2025, highlighting its success in promoting literacy as a tool for inclusion and social cohesion. This initiative fosters cultural identity through community-led learning approaches.

Another notable laureate is the 'Language Friendly School' program by the Rutu Foundation in the Netherlands, which supports multilingual literacy in around 70 schools across 12 countries. Established in 2019, this program has reached over 32,000 students by enabling schools to incorporate learners' home languages alongside the language of instruction. This approach promotes inclusive learning environments, improves educational outcomes, and addresses educational inequalities by fostering multilingual education.

Similarly, the 'Project PAL' initiative by the WAER Waters Charity Foundation in Nigeria targets out-of-school children in conflict-affected areas, providing foundational literacy through innovative learning spaces. The UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy, which recognizes contributions to functional literacy, was awarded to four additional programs. In Lebanon, the 'Accelerated Education for Out-of-school Displaced Youth' by the Alsama Project provides essential literacy skills to displaced youth in refugee camps, compressing 12 years of education into six years. In Mexico, the 'Chiapas Puede' State Literacy Programme delivers bilingual literacy education across all municipalities in Chiapas, reaching over 140,000 learners annually.

Lastly, the 'Language for Life' program in Thailand focuses on multilingual literacy for disaster communication and community resilience, demonstrating the global need for culturally relevant literacy initiatives. The recognition of these programs by UNESCO underscores the critical role of literacy in fostering social inclusion and participation. As these initiatives continue to evolve, they have the potential to inspire further advancements in literacy education worldwide. The collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and local communities, are essential for sustaining these impactful programs. Moving forward, enhancing literacy through innovative and inclusive approaches will remain a global priority, with the aim of bridging educational gaps and empowering individuals through knowledge.