In order to make the case for renewed commitment and investment there is an urgent need for governments to take new action on adult literacy. This document calls for action to “write the wrongs” in the field of adult literacy – reversing decades of under-investment, and transforming policy and practice to develop effective programmes. Adult literacy plays a critical role in reducing gender inequality, ensuring the healthy development and education of children, and in reducing the spread of HIV/AIDS. It is
the invisible ingredient in any successful strategy for eradicating poverty.
Unfortunately, in recent years it has become all too invisible.