Luanda: At least 3,973 adults in Zaire province, Angola, have successfully learned to read and write during the 2023-2024 academic year as part of a national initiative to combat illiteracy. This achievement was highlighted by the deputy governor of Zaire, Afonso Nzolameso, during a ceremony in Mbanza Kongo marking International Literacy Day. According to Angola Press News Agency, the deputy governor revealed that 4,935 individuals were enrolled in literacy programs across all municipalities in the province over the past year. However, 962 participants discontinued their studies for reasons that remain unclear. Nzolameso pointed out that illiteracy is a significant global challenge, particularly in developing nations where it restricts employment prospects, limits access to information, and reinforces social exclusion. Nzolameso underscored the importance of literacy as a means to alleviate poverty, promote gender equality, enhance public health, and bolster democratic processes in Angola. He emphasized tha t addressing illiteracy should not be seen solely as a governmental responsibility but rather requires the involvement of all sectors of society, including religious institutions, youth and women's groups, and political organizations. The local government, Nzolameso noted, is dedicated to collaborating with civil society organizations to establish more educational facilities. He stressed that literacy is a fundamental right and an essential tool for sustainable national development. "It is important to emphasize that literacy is not just about teaching letters and numbers, but about teaching people to dream, to think critically and to participate actively in society," Nzolameso asserted.