$ 20,000 from UNESCO International Literacy Awards

UNESCO is calling for applications and nominations for the 2018 UNESCO International Literacy Prizes, which this year will award outstanding programs and individuals who promote literacy around the world within the theme of ‘Literacy and Skills Development’.

Since 1967, the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes have rewarded excellence and innovation in the field of literacy. Over 485 projects and programs undertaken by governments, non-governmental organizations and individuals around the world have already received recognition and support for their excellent work.

Through two prestigious Prizes, UNESCO supports effective literacy practices and encourages the promotion of dynamic literate societies to close the literacy gap of approximately 750 millions of people.

UNESCO distinguishes between two Literacy Prizes which are given to five laureates:

[1] The UNESCO King Sejong Literacy Prize (2 awards): The prize was established in 1989 and is supported by the Government of the Republic of Korea. It gives special consideration to programs that focus on the development and use of mother-tongue literacy education and training.

[2] The UNESCO Confucius Prize for Literacy (3 awards), was established in 2005, and is supported by the Government of the People’s Republic of China. This Prize recognizes programs that promote adult literacy, especially in rural areas and for out-of-school youth, particularly girls and women.

Eligibility criteria:

[1] Governments, non-governmental organizations and individuals which seek to promote literacy through effective and innovative projects or programs are kindly invited to apply.

[2] be ongoing and proven record of innovative work in the field of literacy for at least three years.

[3] have not been awarded the UNESCO International Literacy Prizes in the past five years.

Awards:

Based on the recommendations of the International Jury, the Director-General of UNESCO will be select the finalists to award the Prizes on 7 September 2018 at the occasion of International Literacy Day. Each of the prizewinners receives a medal, a diploma and $20,000.

UNESCO is working to create appropriate conditions for launching a dialogue among civilizations, cultures and peoples on the basis of respect for common values. Through this dialogue, the world can come up with comprehensive visions of sustainable development, ensuring adherence to human rights, mutual respect and poverty alleviation, All of which lie at the heart of UNESCO's mission and activities.