Mexico hosts global International Literacy Day celebrations

Mexico hosted the global celebration for the 60th anniversary of International Literacy Day in the state of Chiapas. Organized by UNESCO and the Mexican government, the event took place in San Cristóbal de Las Casas and San Juan Chamula under the theme ‘Literacy for people, the planet and prosperity.’

Participants, including educators, researchers, and international representatives, discussed the evolution of literacy, emphasizing the need to expand the concept beyond reading and writing to include digital competencies. The event also highlighted the importance of integrating indigenous languages and community knowledge into educational processes.

During the proceedings, UNESCO presented the 2026 International Literacy Prizes. Among the recipients was Colombia’s ‘Escuelas LEO’ program from BibloRed, which earned the UNESCO Rey Sejong Literacy Prize.

In Campeche, the State Institute for Adult Education (IEEA) marked the anniversary with a race and walk involving over 500 participants to raise awareness about the fundamental right to literacy for individuals over the age of 15.