The Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE) reported that illiteracy in Brazil has fallen below 5% for the first time, with 8.4 million people aged 15 or older still unable to read or write. This represents a reduction of nearly 592,000 illiterate individuals compared to 2024, but the goal set by the National Education Plan for 2024 was not achieved. Over half of the illiterate population lives in the Northeast region, where the illiteracy rate reached 10.6%, the highest among all regions. Among those aged 60 or older, who make up 58% of the illiterate population, women now have a lower illiteracy rate than men for the first time. Racial disparities remain significant, with Black or mixed-race individuals over 60 having an illiteracy rate of 20.6%, nearly three times higher than the 7.3% observed among white individuals. The report highlights progress in education, including more Black or mixed-race individuals aged 25 or older completing high school, though still below the proportion seen among white individuals. Experts note that while literacy rates are improving, educational inequalities persist, exacerbated by the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on access to and
Bias read (Center): The article presents statistical data and expert commentary on educational outcomes in Brazil, focusing on trends in illiteracy and regional/racial disparities. It does not take a clear ideological stance, instead reporting findings from the IBGE and quoting experts who highlight both progress and持续



