This year marks a special occasion as we commemorate the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) – a monumental Declaration proclaiming 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, which 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 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 and human rights and a precursor for a sustainable society. In an age where information is at our fingertips and the global context is rapidly changing, literacy's importance has never been more pronounced.

Yet, the numbers speak a different story. As of 2020, 763 million young people and adults lacked basic literacy skills. The challenges have been compounded by unforeseen events such as the COVID-19 pandemic, escalating climate changes, and global conflicts. The pandemic has put a severe 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 promoting 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 their full potential.”

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

In this age, literacy is not just the foundation for sustainable societies, but 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 to ensure inclusive and equitable education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. Primarily, target 4.6 focused on youth and adult literacy and numeracy, and shaping a greener, better, and safer future requires intensified efforts and radical changes in our thinking, approaches, and actions. 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 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, peaceful societies.

Every nation's approach to ensuring literacy is uniquely influenced by its cultural, social, and legal framework. Uzbekistan is among the countries deeply committed to promoting education, 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 Preschool Education: The State's commitment to preschool education is pivotal. Early childhood education forms the bedrock for future learning, ensuring children have a solid foundation 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 is given an opportunity to learn and grow irrespective of their abilities.
• Higher Education Accessibility: Article 51 reinforces the accessibility of higher education. Allowing citizens to receive higher education on a competitive basis at the state's expense removes financial barriers that can often deter individuals from pursuing further studies.
• Academic Freedom: The Constitution addresses access and 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 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, the President declared 2023 as the year of “Human Care and Quality Education” which has since seen significant strides in educational reforms. On August 28, 2023, a major video conference chaired by President Mirziyoyev underscored the need for quality improvement in education, teacher support, and infrastructure enhancement.

According to the tenet “New Uzbekistan begins at school”, many 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 significant salary increments, especially for teachers specializing in high-demand subjects and those opting to work in remote areas. However, amidst these advancements, challenges persist. Many students still graduate without profound expertise in any subject, and many teachers have been evaluated as 'unsatisfactory' in pivotal issues. Recognizing these gaps, the President has launched initiatives targeting content enhancement and pedagogical improvement and bolstered school infrastructure.

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

Additionally, a significant financial allocation is being directed towards constructing new schools, with an ambitious target of creating 250,000 school places 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 continuing 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 is the cornerstone of development. By addressing the literacy gap, we are not just teaching individuals to read and write but also empowering them to contribute to sustainable, inclusive, and peaceful societies. 

Robiya Arslonova,

Leading Specialist, 

National Centre of the Republic of Uzbekistan for Human Rights