Since 1967, UNESCO International Literacy Prizes have rewarded excellence and innovation in the field of literacy. Over 490 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.

In this context, UNESCO has now opened the call for nomination for the 2019 edition of the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes, inviting all stakeholders to submit nominations for this year

Every year, the prizes are organized around a specific theme. This year’s focus is on ‘Literacy and Multilingualism’.

Currently there are two UNESCO International Literacy Prizes:

• The UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize (2 awards)

Established in 1989, with the support of the Government of the Republic of Korea. It gives special consideration to the development and use of mother-tongue literacy education and training.
Read the statutes.

• The UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy (3 awards)

The UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy, established in 2005, with the support of the Government of the People’s Republic of China. It gives special consideration to literacy amongst adults in rural areas and out-of-school youth, particularly girls and women.
Read the statutes.

Each of the five prizewinners receives a medal, a diploma and US$20.000.

The deadline for nominations is Sunday 23 June 2019. For further information, please visit the dedicated page