Literacy in India

UNESCO International Literacy Prizes

Since 1967, UNESCO International Literacy Prizes have rewarded excellence and innovation in the field of literacy. 512 projects and programmes undertaken by governments, non-governmental organizations and individuals around the world have been recognized. Through these prestigious Prizes, UNESCO seeks to support effective literacy practices and encourages the promotion of dynamic literate societies.

Currently there are two UNESCO International Literacy Prizes:

  • The UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize (3 awards)

Established in 1989, with the support of the Government of the Republic of Korea, it gives special consideration to mother language-based literacy development.
Each prizewinner receives a medal, a diploma and US$20.000.
- Read the statutes.

  • The UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy (3 awards)

Established in 2005, with the support of the Government of the People’s Republic of China, it gives special consideration functional literacy, leveraging technological environments, in support of adults in rural areas and out-of-school youth.
Each prizewinner receives a medal, a diploma and US$30.000.
 - Read the statutes.

Puku Children's Literature Foundation in South Africa

Application and nomination process

The 2023 call for applications is now closed.

UNESCO International Literacy Prizes 2023, Promoting literacy for a world in transition: building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies: analytical study
UNESCO
2023
0000388129
UNESCO International Literacy Prizes 2023 laureates
2023
UNESCO
0000386700
International Literacy Day and Prizes 2022: transforming literacy learning spaces; executive summary of the background paper
UNESCO
2022
UNESCO
0000382650
UNESCO International Literacy Day and Prizes 2022: transforming literacy learning spaces: background paper
2022
UNESCO
0000382649
UNESCO International Literacy Prizes 2022: transforming literacy learning spaces
2022
UNESCO
0000382595