Islamabad: International Literacy Day is being observed on Monday. This year, the day is being celebrated under the theme of 'Promoting literacy in the digital era.'

According to Radio Pakistan, President Asif Ali Zardari expressed a commitment to advancing universal literacy through stronger public policies, investments in quality education, digital innovations, and community engagement. He emphasized the importance of empowering women and girls through education, noting that ensuring literacy and education for women leads to healthier families, stronger economies, and a more equitable society.

The President highlighted the significance of strengthening non-formal education alongside the formal system in Pakistan to ensure that every child, youth, and adult has the opportunity to learn, regardless of age, gender, or socio-economic background. He expressed optimism that together, society can be built to uphold human dignity, empower women, and harness the full potential of citizens for peace, prosperity, and progress.

In his message, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif underscored that the federal and provincial governments are united in promoting education and increasing literacy rates in the country. He pointed out that the main objective of the national literacy campaign is to ensure that every child not only receives basic education but also becomes familiar with higher education, skills, and technical knowledge.

Shehbaz Sharif described education as a journey towards a brighter future that strengthens the foundations of a nation both individually and collectively. He urged teachers, parents, and every citizen to fulfill their crucial roles in eradicating illiteracy, thereby laying the foundation for a strong, talented, and developed Pakistan.