Literacy Year, 1990

At present global illiteracy stands at twenty eight per cent of the total world population. The UN, with UNESCO as the lead Agency, has proclaimed 1990 as International Literacy Year to enhance public understanding of the various aspects of the problem. Brazil, where 20 million people cannot read or write, is trying to address the problem. In the slum area surrounding Rio de Janeiro a literacy programme is under way to teach young and old alike basic education and skills to better their lives.