Uploaded October 2021 | Updated September 2026, 11 hours ago

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India has made excellent strides forward in increasing literacy over the last 20 years. But this progress has been unequal. Despite policies and programs illiteracy in various disadvantaged groups, such as those with disability, low income, low caste and dwelling rurally has typically remained stubbornly high. This has been exacerbated by COVID-19 where people with access and resources have fared relatively well. Those without access have really struggled.

Discussants will address this topic from different angles:

Tom Delaney spoke of his work on illiteracy inequality in India and shared his experiences from living and working in slums.

Dr Amanda Gilbertson has researched some of the affirmative action programs of the government.

Prerana Singh coordinated a group of charitable schools under Enabled.

This event was chaired by Professor Nathan Grills, Professor Melbourne School of Population and Global Health and Senior Research Adviser (Health) and Fellow, Australia India Institute