UNESCO has officially opened nominations for the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes 2026, inviting individuals, organizations, and government bodies worldwide to submit innovative literacy programmes that have significantly improved literacy outcomes.
The 2026 theme, “Literacy for people, the planet and prosperity,” highlights the essential role literacy plays in advancing human empowerment and sustainable development. This year’s awards are particularly significant as they coincide with the 60th anniversary of International Literacy Day, celebrating six decades of global commitment to literacy.
Since 1967, the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes have recognized more than 500 literacy initiatives across the world. In 2026, six prestigious awards will be granted to outstanding programmes that demonstrate measurable impact in literacy education.
Prize Overview
- Host Organization: UNESCO
- Award Type: International Literacy Prize
- Eligible Applicants: Individuals, NGOs, and Government Bodies
- Number of Awards: 6
- Prize Amount: US$30,000 for each winner
- Application Mode: Online nomination through UNESCO-approved nominating entities
- Eligible Regions: Open worldwide
- Application Deadline: 18 May 2026
- Nomination Deadline: 1 June 2026
- Award Announcement: 8 September 2026
- Theme for 2026: Literacy for people, the planet and prosperity
Theme of UNESCO International Literacy Prizes 2026
The theme for this year is:
“Literacy for people, the planet and prosperity”
This theme reflects the global urgency to strengthen literacy as a foundation for:
- Social inclusion
- Economic empowerment
- Environmental sustainability
- Lifelong learning
- Achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
UNESCO aims to recognize programmes that support literacy across social, economic, and environmental dimensions, helping communities build a more sustainable future.
Award Categories
The UNESCO International Literacy Prizes 2026 consist of six annual awards, divided into two categories:
UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize
- Number of Awards: 3
- Sponsored By: Government of the Republic of Korea
- Established In: 1989
This prize recognizes initiatives promoting:
- Mother-tongue literacy
- Multilingual literacy development
Each award recipient receives:
- A medal
- A diploma
- US$ 30,000
UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy
- Number of Awards: 3
- Sponsored By: Government of the People’s Republic of China
- Established In: 2005
This prize honors programmes that promote:
- Functional literacy in rural areas
- Literacy for out-of-school youth
- Literacy through technology
Each laureate receives:
- A medal
- A diploma
- US$ 30,000
Eligibility Criteria
Applications are open to:
- Individuals
- Non-governmental organizations (NGOs)
- Government bodies
Eligible programmes must:
- Be actively engaged in literacy promotion
- Demonstrate measurable impact
- Align with the 2026 theme: “Literacy for people, the planet and prosperity”
UNESCO seeks initiatives that have delivered proven literacy outcomes and contributed to sustainable development goals.
Benefits of the UNESCO Literacy Prizes
Winning the UNESCO International Literacy Prize offers:
- US$ 30,000 grant
- International recognition from UNESCO
- Medal and official diploma
- Global visibility for literacy programmes
- Opportunity to showcase innovative literacy solutions worldwide
The award helps literacy initiatives expand their reach and gain global credibility.
Application Process
Applicants must complete the nomination process through UNESCO’s online application platform.
Step 1: Submit Application Online
Candidates need to request access to the online application form through the official UNESCO link.
Step 2: Obtain Endorsement
Applications must be endorsed by an eligible nominating body:
- A National Commission for UNESCO, or
- An NGO in official partnership with UNESCO
Step 3: Review by Nominating Entity
The nominating body will review submitted applications and select the strongest programmes for nomination.
Step 4: UNESCO Jury Evaluation
An independent International Jury of five experts will evaluate the nominated programmes based on UNESCO’s selection criteria.
Important Deadlines
Applicants should note the following deadlines:
- 18 May 2026: Deadline for candidates to submit applications to nominating entities
- 1 June 2026: Deadline for nominating entities to submit nominations to UNESCO
- 8 September 2026: Award winners announced on International Literacy Day
Timely submission is essential to be considered for the awards.
Why These Prizes Matter
Despite major progress in education, UNESCO reports that:
- 739 million youth and adults still lack basic literacy skills
- Millions of children remain out of school
- Many learners struggle with reading and numeracy
The UNESCO International Literacy Prizes aim to highlight effective solutions and inspire action toward universal literacy. By rewarding impactful literacy programmes, UNESCO supports innovations that transform lives and strengthen communities worldwide.
Official Call: https://www.unesco.org/en/articles/unesco-calls-nominations-2026-international-literacy-prizes
