UNESCO International Literacy Prizes

Application Deadline:27 June 2021

The 2021 call for applications and nominations is now open.

The theme for this year is “Inclusive distance and digital literacy learning”

Since 1967, UNESCO International Literacy Prizes have rewarded excellence and innovation in the field of literacy. Over 500 projects and programmes undertaken by governments, non-governmental organizations and individuals around the world have been recognized. Through these prestigious Prizes, UNESCO seeks to support effective literacy practices and encourages the promotion of dynamic literate societies.

Currently there are two UNESCO International Literacy Prizes:

• The UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize (3 awards)

Established in 1989, with the support of the Government of the Republic of Korea. It gives special consideration to mother language-based literacy development. 
 – Read the statutes.

Each of the three UNESCO King Sejong prizewinners receives a medal, a diploma and US$20.000.

• The UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy (3 awards)

The UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy, established in 2005, with the support of the Government of the People’s Republic of China. It gives special consideration functional literacy, leveraging technological environments, in support of adults in rural areas and out-of-school Youth.
 – Read the statutes.

Each of the three UNESCO Confucius prizewinners receives a medal, a diploma and US$30.000.

Requirements

Governments, non-governmental organizations and individuals who promote literacy through projects and programmes are welcome to apply. All applications should be submitted to nominating entities, such as the National Commission for UNESCO in the country of the programme, or an NGO that is in an official partnership with UNESCO.

Candidates can submit their applications through the online platform. Details about the application and nomination process are on the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes’ website.

National Commissions and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in official partnership with UNESCO are encouraged to nominate individuals, institutions and organizations who are making outstanding contributions to promoting literacy and who request a nomination.

• Deadline for candidates to submit applications to nominating entities: 13 June 2021 (midnight, Paris time).
• Deadline for nominating entities to submit their nominations to UNESCO: 27 June 2021 (midnight, Paris time).

The nominations will be assessed by an independent International Jury, composed of five experts on the basis of the selection criteria. Based on the recommendations of the International Jury, the Director-General of UNESCO will select the finalists to be awarded at the occasion of International Literacy Day (8 September).

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes 2021