Kerala Conducted Adult Literacy Assessment: 30,000 Learners Took Part

Kerala on Sunday ( January 25 , 2026) began the adult literacy and numeracy assessment under the national programme, with nearly 30,000 adult learners participating across multiple centres during the ongoing assessment cycle , conducted in phases across the state. Officials clarified that the figure does not indicate a single-day turnout but reflects participation spread over scheduled assessment periods, as part of the state’s sustained push towards complete literacy.

The initiative, known as ULLAS , was launched by the Ministry of Education in 2022 and is scheduled to run until 2027 . It is a key component of the National Policy framework on education reforms and targets adults aged 15 years and above who missed formal schooling. The programme focuses on building foundational reading, writing and numeracy skills while promoting lifelong learning and social inclusion.

Under the scheme, learners are identified at the community level and trained by volunteer instructors using a mix of printed material and digital resources. After completing the learning modules, participants appear for a structured assessment that evaluates basic literacy and numeracy competencies. Those who successfully clear the test are awarded certificates recognising their attainment of functional literacy, helping them engage more effectively in economic and civic life.

The programme is being implemented across all states and Union Territories, with several regions already reporting significant progress and achieving prescribed literacy benchmarks. Kerala’s strong participation in the current assessment cycle places it among the leading states in the national adult literacy drive, highlighting the role of community participation and administrative coordination in advancing the goal of universal literacy.