Kuwait reaches nearly 100% literacy rate with emphasis on women’s education

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, September 10, 2026

Kuwait has achieved near-universal literacy, particularly closing the gender gap by significantly increasing women’s literacy and higher education enrollment. This progress supports the country’s broader 2035 development vision and includes recent initiatives integrating AI technology to further enhance educational access and quality.

Kuwait has reached nearly universal literacy, with particular advancements in women’s education, officials announced as the world commemorated the 60th International Literacy Day on September 8. Marked annually since its declaration by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1966, this year’s observance focused on the theme “Literacy for People, Planet, and Prosperity,” highlighting progress towards the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals.

According to UNESCO data from 2024, Kuwait’s female literacy rate has approached full saturation, coinciding with increased enrollment of women in higher education, especially in scientific fields. The illiteracy rate for women stands at roughly 2%, compared with 0.14% among men, reflecting significant narrowing of gender disparities in educational attainment.

Kuwait’s sustained efforts to promote literacy date back to the mid-20th century. The Ministry of Education established the nation’s first literacy and adult education centers in 1957 and has since expanded these facilities nationwide. Kuwait’s legal framework has supported compulsory and free education for all children since the enactment of Law No. 11/1965, which mandates government provision of resources essential to education, including school infrastructure, books, and qualified teachers.

The country’s drive to eliminate illiteracy has unfolded in three distinct phases: an initial period from 1950 to 1957, a second from 1957 to 1981, and a third phase beginning with the Literacy Law of 1981. This legislation contains 23 articles aimed at eradicating illiteracy and improving educational access.

Education remains a high priority in Kuwait’s national development agenda, with significant budget allocations placing the country among the highest global spenders on education. Kuwait’s “New Kuwait 2035” vision underscores the importance of literacy as a foundation for social and economic progress.

In line with modernization initiatives, Kuwait has recently integrated technology and artificial intelligence (AI) into education. On February 11, 2026, the Ministry of Education partnered with Google to launch a project implementing AI tools designed to enhance the learning experience according to international standards. Furthermore, on May 4, the Ministry approved the resumption of in-person classes at adult education and literacy centers, reaffirming its commitment to maintaining and advancing literacy programs.

These developments demonstrate Kuwait’s ongoing dedication to fostering education at all levels, aiming to ensure broad access and adapt to future educational needs through technological innovation.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.