This year marks a special occasion as we commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) — a monumental Declaration that proclaims the inalienable rights to which every human being is inherently entitled.

One of its foundational articles, Article 26, states that everyone has the right to education, and it should be free, at least in the elementary and fundamental stages. Elementary education shall be compulsory, and technical and professional education shall be made generally available. But beyond mere access, it emphasizes that education shall be directed to the full development of the human personality and to the strengthening of respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms.

International Literacy Day is observed every year on September 8th to raise awareness and concern for literacy issues in our world. The event's main objective is to raise people's awareness of and concern for literacy issues in the world. Given the essential role, that literacy plays in individual and societal development, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has promoted this day since 1967. This is not just about the ability to read and write, but also as a pillar of dignity, human rights, and a precursor for a sustainable society. In the age where information is at our fingertips, and with the global context rapidly changing, the importance of literacy has never been more pronounced.

Yet, the numbers speak a different story. As of 2020, there were 763 million young people and adults who lacked basic literacy skills. And the challenges have been compounded with unforeseen events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, escalating climate changes, and global conflicts. In fact, the pandemic has put a serious dent in our progress. In low- and middle-income countries alone, the proportion of 10-year-old children who could not read and understand a simple text with comprehension shockingly increased from 57% in 2019 to 70% in 2022.

The theme for International Literacy Day this year, 'Promoting literacy for a world in transition: Building the foundation for sustainable and peaceful societies', is not just a call to action but an imperative for collective responsibility.

Kofi Annan, the seventh Secretary-General of the United Nations, once said: “Literacy is a bridge from misery to hope. It is a tool for daily life in modern society. It is a bulwark against poverty, and a building block of development, an essential complement to investments in roads, dams, clinics, and factories. Literacy is a platform for democratization, and a vehicle for the promotion of cultural and national identity. Especially for girls and women, it is an agent of family health and nutrition. For everyone, everywhere, literacy is, along with education in general, a basic human right.... Literacy is, finally, the road to human progress and the means through which every man, woman, and child can realize his or her full potential.”

This quote emphasizes the fundamental importance of literacy in individual and societal development, and the role it plays in ensuring a better and more equitable future for all.

 Literacy, in this age, is not just the foundation for sustainable societies, but it is also the bridge to peace, justice, and inclusivity. A literate population can engage in informed discussions, evaluate the state of affairs, and seek solutions for global challenges, be it climate change, health pandemics, or socio-economic disparities.

The Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4) aims at ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all. Especially target 4.6 focused on youth and adult literacy and numeracy, and shaping a greener, better, and safer future requires not only intensified efforts but also radical changes in our thinking, approaches, and action. In 2021, a report by UNESCO's International Commission on the Futures of Education titled 'Reimagining our futures: A new social contract for education', emphasized the need to revolutionize education for a harmonious, equitable, and eco-friendly future. The Seventh International Conference on Adult Education in Marrakech from 15-17 June 2022 highlighted the significance of continuous learning. Meanwhile, the Transforming Education Summit, organized by the UN Secretary-General in New York from 16-19 September 2022, sparked a worldwide initiative. Over 130 countries and organizations pledged to innovate education leading up to the Summit of the Future in New York on 22-23 September 2024 and beyond.

However, the essence of this goal is not just about numbers and literacy rates. It is about understanding the symbiotic relationship between literacy and all other facets of development. As societies progress, the motivation to gain and use literacy skills intensifies. Conversely, as more people become literate, they become active contributors to creating sustainable, just, and peaceful societies.

Every nation's approach to ensuring literacy is uniquely influenced by its cultural, social, and legal framework. Among the countries deeply committed to promoting education is Uzbekistan and its Constitution stands as a testament to this pledge. Looking closely at Articles 50 and 51 from the New Constitution of Uzbekistan, we can identify key elements that signify the nation's dedication to promoting literacy and education:

• Right to Education: The Constitution firmly establishes that every citizen has the right to education. This foundational right sets the stage for a range of policies and actions the State might take to ensure access to education for all.
• Continuous Education System: By ensuring the development of a continuous education system and recognizing various types and forms of educational institutions, the Constitution acknowledges the diverse needs and the evolving nature of education.
• Promotion of Pre-school Education: The State's commitment to pre-school education is pivotal. Early childhood education forms the bedrock for future learning, ensuring that children have a solid foundation upon which to build their educational journey.
• Free and Compulsory Secondary Education: By guaranteeing free general secondary education and making it compulsory, Uzbekistan is taking a firm step to ensure that literacy is not just a privilege but a norm for its citizens.
• Inclusive Education: The emphasis on providing inclusive education and upbringing for children with special educational needs is a commendable stride towards ensuring equality. Every child, irrespective of their abilities, is given an opportunity to learn and grow.
• Higher Education Accessibility: Article 51 reinforces the accessibility of higher education. By allowing citizens to receive higher education on a competitive basis at the state's expense, it removes financial barriers that can often deter individuals from pursuing further studies.
• Academic Freedom: The Constitution does not only address access but also the quality and nature of education. By granting higher educational institutions the right to academic freedom and self-governance, it fosters an environment conducive to innovation, research, and critical thinking.

Commitments to inclusive and quality education are paramount for advancing literacy and empowering all individuals. In alignment with the International Literacy Day 2023, Uzbekistan's commitment to improving its educational landscape is evident in the recent initiatives spearheaded by President Shavkat Mirziyoyev. Earlier in the year, President declared 2023 as the year of “Human Care and Quality Education” which has since seen significant strides in educational reforms. On August 28th, 2023, a major video conference chaired by President Mirziyoyev underscored the need for quality improvement in education, teacher support, and infrastructure enhancement.

In accordance with the tenet "New Uzbekistan begins at school," a plethora of modern schools have emerged, including Presidential and Art Schools, with specialized institutions witnessing an expansion. New curriculums have been devised, textbooks have been developed, and substantial attention has been directed towards bettering teachers' working conditions and qualifications. This involves substantial salary increments, especially for teachers specializing in high-demand subjects and for those who opt to work in remote areas. However, amidst these advancements, challenges persist. Many students still graduate without profound expertise in any subject, and a considerable percentage of teachers have been evaluated as 'unsatisfactory' in pivotal subjects. Recognizing these gaps, the President has launched initiatives targeting content enhancement, pedagogical improvement, and bolstered infrastructure for schools.

Furthermore, the nation’s strategic efforts are also visible in the management of school education. With an emphasis on quality, the recruitment process for teachers is undergoing a revamp, ensuring that educators are hired competitively and evaluated regularly.

Additionally, a significant financial allocation is being directed towards the construction of new schools, with an ambitious target of creating 250,000 school places in the next year. Not only is there a focus on academic growth, but the well-being of students is also given priority.

Following the introduction of iodine supplements three years ago, the President highlighted the notable decrease in thyroid diseases in children and emphasized the continuation of this health initiative. In his heartfelt address to the educational fraternity, President Mirziyoyev recognized the undying commitment and efforts of teachers, principals, and deputies, reiterating their central role in sculpting the “New Uzbekistan”. It is a testament to the belief that a well-educated and enlightened young generation will be the torchbearers of a brighter, more prosperous New Uzbekistan.

On International Literacy Day, as we reflect on global educational achievements and challenges, Uzbekistan's commitment offers a blueprint of how nations can lay a solid foundation for literacy and education. While challenges undoubtedly remain in its practical implementation, the legal framework provides a robust starting point, demonstrating that the journey to literacy and education is both a right and a shared responsibility.

To conclude, the 75th anniversary of the UDHR reminds us of our collective commitment to human dignity and rights. While the world has faced unprecedented challenges in recent years, we must remember that literacy serves as the cornerstone of development. By addressing the literacy gap, we are not just teaching individuals to read and write but empowering them to contribute to sustainable, inclusive, and peaceful societies.

Robiya Arslonova,

Leading Specialist,

National Centre of the Republic of Uzbekistan

for Human Rights

UzA