On Twitter, Guterres posted that everyone has the right to learn how to read and write, but far too many women and girls continue to be left behind.

Meanwhile, the Director General of the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Audrey Azoulay warned that the Covid-19 pandemic continues to hinder the progress of literacy worldwide.

In her message for the International Literacy Day, Ms. Azoulay pointed out that the lack of access to distance learning caused more than 500 million students to fall behind as they were unable to continue learning.

Many could not even begin their studies, Ms. Azoulay regretted.

According to UNESCO, at least 773 million people worldwide still cannot read or write, while 250 million children do not learn basic literacy skills.

In addition, and due to educational breaks due to the Covid-19 pandemic, UNESCO confirmed serious learning losses and some 23.8 million children and young people could drop out of school or not have access this year.

Every September 8, International Literacy Day is celebrated to draw attention to the significance of knowing how to read and write as a factor of dignity and human rights, and to promote actions in this regard.

pgh/Pll/oda / ifb/gdc