"Literacy is a catalyst for sustainable development, facilitating increased participation in the labor market, enhancing child and family well-being, reducing poverty, and expanding life opportunities," UNESCO emphasized.

According to UNESCO's latest data, the number of illiterate individuals has declined slightly from 771 million last year to 763 million this year. However, it remains a significant global issue.

Alarming statistics indicate that at least one out of every seven young people and adults aged 15 and over worldwide lacks fundamental literacy skills.

The region most affected by this challenge is South Asia, which is home to nearly half of the world's illiterate population. Sub-Saharan Africa follows closely behind with 27 percent of the global illiteracy burden.

Notably, UNESCO's data reveals that approximately 65 percent of those lacking basic literacy skills are women. This gender disparity underscores the need for targeted efforts to address this issue and promote gender equality in education.

The UNESCO report underscores the critical importance of continuing global efforts to promote literacy and education to improve the lives of millions of people and contribute to sustainable development. (ILKHA)