8 September is International Literacy Day!

On this day we celebrate the life changing power of literacy and recognise the adults who take the next step in improving and enhancing their literacy.

For over 45 years, the National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA) has helped adults build reading, writing, maths and computer skills.

Whether someone wants to read with their children, send their first email, apply for a job or gain a qualification, we are here to support them every step of the way. We also recognise that every learner and their learning journey is different. That’s why we offer learners free:

• 1-to-1 sessions with professional tutors
• online courses and materials through our award winning Learn with NALA website
• workbooks and publications
• NALA certificates and Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI) awards

Learners can progress at their own pace, in a way that works for them. Your support today can help

Why is supporting NALA important?

Today in Ireland:

• 1 in 5 adults (around 700,000) struggle with reading and understanding simple texts
• 1 in 4 (around 835,000) has difficulty with everyday maths
• 1 in 6 (around 640,000) struggle with the digital skills needed for daily tasks*

The National Adult Literacy Agency (NALA), a registered charity, works throughout the year to ensure that every adult has the literacy, numeracy and digital skills required to realise their potential.

Through our services, research and advocacy we work towards making literacy a reality for everyone.

“I said ‘I am going to make a change for myself…I am going to learn to read and write’…It was the best thing I ever did.”

Linda, NALA learner

*Sources

Figures for reading and maths: Adults aged 16-65. Source: Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Survey of Adult Skills 2023

Figures for digital skills: Adults aged 16-74. Source: Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI, 2025)