ISLAMABAD: As the world marked International Literacy Day on September 8, President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called for a united national resolve to ensure education that is universal, inclusive, and accessible for all.

President stresses education as a human right

In his message, President Asif Ali Zardari urged the nation to reaffirm its dedication to promoting literacy and knowledge.

“On this International Literacy Day, I call upon all Pakistanis to reaffirm their commitment to this noble cause. Let us envision a Pakistan where literacy is universal, education is inclusive, and knowledge is accessible to all. Together, we can build a society that upholds human dignity, empowers women, and harnesses the full potential of our citizens for peace, prosperity, and progress,” he said.

He reiterated the government’s commitment to advancing universal literacy through stronger public policies, greater investment in quality education, digital innovation, and active community engagement.

Literacy as a tool of empowerment

Highlighting that literacy is not just the ability to read and write, the president said it represents cognitive development, dignity, and a fundamental human right. Literacy, he stressed, empowers individuals with confidence, gives them a voice in society, and creates opportunities that would otherwise remain inaccessible.

“It is the foundation of personal growth and social progress, enabling citizens to participate in economic, cultural, and democratic life,” President Zardari added.

Focus on women’s education

The president placed special emphasis on educating women and girls, noting that an educated woman uplifts her family and community, becoming an agent of change.

“By ensuring literacy and education for women, we invest in healthier families, stronger economies, and a more equitable society. No nation can achieve its true potential if half of its population is left behind,” he remarked.

He also underscored the need for families, communities, civil society, the media, and the private sector to work collectively toward fostering a culture of lifelong learning.

PM calls for modern, skilled education

Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif, in his message, said both federal and provincial governments were united in efforts to raise the literacy rate and promote education across Pakistan.

He stated that the national literacy campaign aimed not only to provide every child with basic education but also to equip them with higher learning, skills, and technical knowledge.

“This is the only way to prepare generations of the nation for the requirements of the modern era,” the prime minister said.

Education as foundation of progress

Prime Minister Sharif emphasized that education was more than reading and writing—it was a journey toward a brighter future by strengthening the foundations of the nation at both individual and collective levels.

“On International Literacy Day, Pakistan stands in solidarity with the global community, highlighting the importance of knowledge and education in economic and social life, and recognizing its fundamental role in development and prosperity,” he concluded.