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UNESCO calls for nominations for the 2025 International Literacy Prizes
This year鈥檚 theme 鈥淧romoting literacy in the digital era鈥 emphasizes the importance of equipping individuals with the critical skills needed to navigate an increasingly digitized world. As digital technologies reshape how we communicate, learn, and work, literacy has become more essential than ever for personal empowerment and social inclusion.
Since 1967, the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes have recognized over 500 exceptional programmes and initiatives that advance literacy across the globe. Each year, the six prizes are awarded to individuals or organizations whose innovative efforts make a significant impact in the field of literacy education.
Who can apply?
Applications are open to individuals, non-governmental organizations, and government bodies engaged in literacy promotion. Projects must demonstrate measurable impact and align with the 2025 theme 鈥淧romoting literacy in the digital era鈥.
How to apply
Interested candidates should submit their applications through the online platform and seek endorsement from an eligible nominating entity 鈥 either a National Commission for UNESCO or an NGO in official partnership with UNESCO.
Nominating entities will review applications and forward the strongest candidates to UNESCO. Submissions will be evaluated by an independent International Jury composed of five experts, using established selection criteria.
Important deadlines
- 13 June 2025 (midnight, GMT +2): Deadline for candidates to submit applications to nominating entities.
- 27 June 2025 (midnight, GMT +2): Deadline for nominating entities to submit nominations to UNESCO.
Awardees will be announced during the celebration of International Literacy Day on 8 September 2025.
About the Prizes
The prizes aim to promote literacy as a foundation for lifelong learning, equity, and sustainable development, especially in light of ongoing global challenges. Despite progress, over 754 million youth and adults still lack basic literacy skills, and millions of children remain out of school or struggle with reading and numeracy.
The prizes include six annual awards:
- UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize (3 awards): Supported by the Government of the Republic of Korea, this prize highlights mother-tongue and multilingual literacy efforts. Each laureate receives a medal, a diploma and US$ 20,000.
- UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy (3 awards): Funded by the Government of the People鈥檚 Republic of China, this prize recognizes programmes supporting functional literacy in rural areas and among out-of-school youth, particularly through technology. Each laureate receives a medal, a diploma, and US$ 30,000.
