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Every individual has the privilege of reading, an activity that can serve as a foundation for inclusive sustainable development. Reading recognizes no boundaries, as it removes barriers related to background differences. Everyone has the right to access knowledge to grow and develop.

However, what should be a fundamental right for all human beings has not yet been fully realized. UNESCO data shows that hundreds of millions of adults still lack basic literacy skills, while millions of children are unable to access education.

For this reason, in 1966 the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) designated September 8 as International Literacy Day. The designation originated from an international conference in Tehran, Iran, in 1965, which highlighted illiteracy as a major barrier to social, economic, and cultural progress. Since then, the day has served as a global moment to reaffirm the importance of literacy in societal development.

Literacy is not merely the ability to read and write, but also the capacity to understand, interpret, and apply knowledge. It is a key to empowerment, improved quality of life, democratic participation, and poverty reduction. In its development, literacy also encompasses digital skills, information literacy, and multilingual competence relevant to the challenges of the modern era.

For university students, a strong interest in reading is essential as it forms part of the ongoing learning process in higher education. Throughout their academic journey, students are required to face various examinations and assignments that demand reading, utilizing scientific works or academic journals as references, and transforming them into arguments or statements that can be academically justified.

In this context, one of the sources that can be used as references is internal journals written by lecturers and students of Untar, which can be accessed at https://journal.untar.ac.id/

Through literacy, individuals can improve their quality of life, understand their rights, and contribute positively to society. Therefore, commemorating International Literacy Day is not merely a ceremonial event, but a real call to create a generation that is intelligent, critical, and aware of the importance of knowledge. (VC/YS)