UNESCO International Literacy Prizes 2026 – Call for Nominations

Key Deadlines: May 18, 2026 (applications to nominating entities) | June 1, 2026 (nominations to UNESCO)

About the Prizes

The call for applications and nominations for the 2026 International Literacy Prizes has been opened by UNESCO. Literacy educators, organizations, and governments from around the world are invited to submit outstanding programmes that have made a meaningful contribution to literacy as a driver of human empowerment and sustainable development. Over 500 exceptional programmes and initiatives that advance literacy across the globe have been recognized by the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes since 1967. Six prizes are awarded each year to individuals or organizations whose innovative efforts make a significant impact in the field of literacy education. Basic literacy skills are still lacking for over 739 million youth and adults, and millions of children remain out of school or struggle with reading and numeracy, despite progress. Literacy as a foundation for lifelong learning, equity and sustainable development is promoted through these Prizes, especially in light of ongoing global challenges.

2026 Theme: “Literacy for People, the Planet and Prosperity”

A critical moment is reflected in this year’s theme as the international community takes stock of progress toward the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, and begins shaping a post-2030 global agenda. On the occasion of the 60th anniversary of International Literacy Day, programmes that have advanced literacy across social, economic and environmental dimensions will be recognized through the Prizes.

The Two Prizes (Six Awards Total)

UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize (3 awards):

• Supported by the Government of the Republic of Korea since 1989
• Mother-tongue and multilingual literacy efforts are highlighted through this Prize
• A medal, a diploma, and US$30,000 are received by each laureate

UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy (3 awards):

• Supported by the Government of the People’s Republic of China since 2005
• Programmes supporting functional literacy in rural areas and among out-of-school youth, particularly through technology, are recognized
• A medal, a diploma, and US$30,000 are received by each laureate

Who Can Apply?

Applications are open to:

• Individuals
• Non-governmental organizations
• Government bodies engaged in literacy promotion

Programme Requirements:

• Measurable impact must be demonstrated by programmes
• Alignment with the 2026 theme “Literacy for people, the planet, and prosperity” is required
• The specific focuses of the two prizes should be taken into consideration by applicants when applying

Application Process (Two Stages)

Stage 1: Application (by Candidates)

Through the online platform, applications must be submitted by candidates, and endorsement from an eligible nominating entity either a National Commission for UNESCO or an NGO in official partnership with UNESCO must be sought.

How to Access the Application Form:
Access to the online application form can be requested by applicants click here

Stage 2: Nomination (by Nominating Entities)

Applications will be reviewed by nominating entities (National Commissions for UNESCO or partner NGOs), and the strongest candidates will be forwarded to UNESCO.

Who Can Nominate?
Member States and International Non-Governmental Organizations which maintain official relations with UNESCO are invited to solicit and submit nominations for the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes.

Request Application Access: Click here to apply

Selection Process

By an independent International Jury composed of five experts, submissions will be evaluated, using established selection criteria.

Selection Timeline:

• April–May: Launch of the call for nominations
• June: Last date to submit online nominations
• July: International Jury meeting
• August: Announcement of the prize winners
• September: Award ceremony on the occasion of International Literacy Day (September 8)

Important Deadlines

• 18 May 2026 (midnight, GMT+2): Deadline for applications to be submitted by candidates to nominating entities
• 1 June 2026 (midnight, GMT+2): Deadline for nominations to be submitted by nominating entities to UNESCO

Award Ceremony

During the celebration of International Literacy Day on 8 September 2026, awardees will be announced.

Why These Prizes Matter

A fundamental human right and the foundation for all learning is literacy. Yet over 739 million youth and adults worldwide still lack basic literacy skills, and millions of children remain out of school or struggle with reading and numeracy. Through the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes, several critical functions are served:

• Outstanding efforts that are making a measurable difference are recognized
• Innovative approaches to literacy promotion, including mother-tongue and multilingual education, technology-enabled learning, and rural literacy programmes, are highlighted
• Financial support (US$30,000 per laureate) is provided to sustain and scale impactful work
• Global awareness of the importance of literacy as a driver of sustainable development is raised
• The 60th anniversary of International Literacy Day is celebrated in 2026

For literacy educators, organizations, and governments, the highest international recognition for excellence in literacy promotion is represented by these prizes.

For More Information: Visit the Official UNESCO Call for Nominations