The UNESCO Literacy Prize 2026 is now open for nominations, recognizing outstanding literacy programs worldwide. This prestigious award celebrates innovative efforts that advance literacy as a driver of human empowerment and sustainable development, with a theme of ‘Literacy for people, the planet and prosperity’.
UNESCO, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization, has been awarding these prizes since 1967. Over 500 exceptional programs have been honored, with six prizes awarded annually to individuals or organizations making a significant impact in literacy education.
Benefits of UNESCO Literacy Prize 2026
- Each laureate receives a medal, a diploma, and US$ 30,000.
- Recognition as a UNESCO International Literacy Prize laureate.
- Global visibility for the winning literacy program.
Eligibility Criteria for the UNESCO Literacy Prize 2026
- Open to individuals, non-governmental organizations, and government bodies engaged in literacy promotion.
- Programmes must demonstrate measurable impact.
- Programmes must align with the 2026 theme ‘Literacy for people, the planet, and prosperity’.
How to Apply for UNESCO Literacy Prize 2026?
- Submit applications through the online platform.
- Seek endorsement from an eligible nominating entity: a National Commission for UNESCO or an NGO in official partnership with UNESCO.
- Nominating entities will review applications and forward the strongest candidates to UNESCO.
- Applicants can request access to the online application form via https://unes.co/ilp-account.
- Deadline for candidates to submit applications to nominating entities: 18 May 2026 (midnight, GMT +2).
- Deadline for nominating entities to submit nominations to UNESCO: 1 June 2026 (midnight, GMT +2).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the UNESCO Literacy Prize. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the UNESCO Literacy Prize?
The UNESCO Literacy Prize is an annual award that recognizes outstanding literacy programs worldwide. Since 1967, over 500 exceptional initiatives have been honored. The prize aims to promote literacy as a foundation for lifelong learning, equity, and sustainable development.
Who can apply for the UNESCO Literacy Prize 2026?
Applications are open to individuals, non-governmental organizations, and government bodies engaged in literacy promotion. Programs must demonstrate measurable impact and align with the 2026 theme ‘Literacy for people, the planet, and prosperity’.
What are the benefits of winning the UNESCO Literacy Prize?
Each laureate receives a medal, a diploma, and US$ 30,000. There are six awards annually: three UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prizes and three UNESCO Confucius Prizes for Literacy. Winners also gain global recognition for their literacy program.
What is the deadline for the UNESCO Literacy Prize 2026?
The deadline for candidates to submit applications to nominating entities is 18 May 2026 (midnight, GMT +2). Nominating entities must submit nominations to UNESCO by 1 June 2026 (midnight, GMT +2). Awardees will be announced on 8 September 2026.
How do I apply for the UNESCO Literacy Prize?
Interested candidates should submit their applications through the online platform and seek endorsement from an eligible nominating entity: a National Commission for UNESCO or an NGO in official partnership with UNESCO. Access the application form at https://unes.co/ilp-account.
What is the theme for the 2026 UNESCO Literacy Prize?
The 2026 theme is ‘Literacy for people, the planet and prosperity’. This reflects a critical moment as the international community takes stock of progress toward the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and begins shaping a post-2030 global agenda.
How many prizes are awarded each year?
Six prizes are awarded annually: three UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prizes (supported by the Republic of Korea) and three UNESCO Confucius Prizes for Literacy (supported by the People’s Republic of China). Each laureate receives US$ 30,000.
What is the UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize?
The UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize, supported by the Government of the Republic of Korea since 1989, highlights mother-tongue and multilingual literacy efforts. Three awards are given annually, each with a medal, diploma, and US$ 30,000.
What is the UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy?
The UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy, supported by the Government of the People’s Republic of China since 2005, recognizes programs supporting functional literacy in rural areas and among out-of-school youth, particularly through technology. Three awards are given annually, each with US$ 30,000.
When will the winners be announced?
Awardees will be announced during the celebration of International Literacy Day on 8 September 2026. The prizes are awarded on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of International Literacy Day.
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