Strengthening basic literacy and numeracy skills is at the heart of the International Literacy Day discussions. This issue is particularly relevant in Madagascar, where, according to the 2025 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS-7), only 18% of children aged 7 to 14 demonstrate basic reading skills and 13% demonstrate basic numeracy skills. The Great Island was represented at the international discussions held in Mexico on September 8 and 9, which focused on the theme ‘Literacy for people, the planet, and prosperity’.
The Minister of National Education, Sendra Nirina Rajaonarison, participated in the exchanges, which brought together numerous education ministers for the celebration. The discussions focused on ways to strengthen reading, writing, and numeracy skills from a lifelong learning perspective. The exchanges also addressed transformations related to digital technology and the development of artificial intelligence, which raise new questions about the skills needed for learning and inclusion.
The acquisition of fundamental skills remains closely linked to children’s access to and retention in school. According to MICS-7, 78% of primary school-age children are enrolled in school, compared to only 30% of children of lower secondary school age. Completion rates for school cycles also remain low. 47% of children aged 13 to 15 complete primary school, while 22% of youth aged 17 to 19 complete lower secondary school.
Globally, the challenge remains significant. UNESCO indicates that 272 million children and adolescents were out of school in 2023. In 2024, 739 million youth and adults still lacked basic reading and writing skills. Furthermore, four out of ten children are estimated to not reach the minimum proficiency level in reading.
This mobilization comes as Madagascar seeks to strengthen fundamental learning, in a context where available data highlights the scale of efforts still needed to improve children’s skills and promote lifelong learning.
Captured & Published at: 2026-09-09 18:53:35 (Madagascar Local Time EAT)
Original Source: https://www.2424.mg/education-madagascar-participe-aux-discussions-internationales-sur-le-renforcement-des-competences-de-base-en-lecture-et-calcul/