Global Literacy Report Urges Evidence-to-Policy Shift to End Learning Poverty
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A new literacy paper has underscored the urgent need to translate evidence into policy and practice to address global learning poverty.
The paper, set for official launch at the ongoing 6th Biennial Education Evidence for Action (EE4A) and EDF-Kenya Conference at the University of Embu, recommends immediate adoption of evidence-based strategies by governments to improve classroom outcomes.
Produced by the What Works Hub for Global Education (WWHGE), with the Global Education Evidence Advisory Panel (GEEAP) and the British Council as core partners, the paper highlights three key insights:
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Foundational literacy is essential – Without it, children are locked out of future learning opportunities.
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What works is known – Structured pedagogy, teacher professional development, and targeted interventions can dramatically improve outcomes at scale.
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Partnerships drive impact – Linking global evidence with local policy and classroom practice accelerates sustainable learning gains.
EE4A, convened by the Zizi Afrique Foundation, is a biennial platform bridging research and decision-making in education. It brings together policymakers, researchers, and stakeholders to deliberate on critical issues and influence reforms.
As part of the conference, WWHGE led a session titled “Strengthening the Evidence Ecosystem: Building a Roadmap for Education Reform in Kenya.” The Hub reiterated its mission to ensure rigorous global evidence, such as the GEEAP Literacy Paper, informs government policy and translates into tangible classroom change.
The British Council’s Learning and Life for Global Education (LL4GE) initiative also featured prominently, showcasing an approach that combines literacy, language, and life skills to prepare young people for work, resilience, and citizenship.
Looking ahead, WWHGE, alongside GEEAP, the British Council, and other partners, will support governments in embedding the paper’s recommendations into national reform agendas and implementing them at scale. The goal: to ensure every child, regardless of context, acquires the foundational literacy skills needed to thrive.
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