The literacy rate is a measure that indicates the percentage of people in a specific population who can read and write at a certain age. It is often used to assess the educational level of a country or region. Higher literacy rates are generally associated with better economic development and improved quality of life. Governments and organizations, such as the United Nations, often track literacy rates to identify areas needing educational support. Factors influencing literacy rates include access to education, cultural attitudes towards learning, and economic conditions. Improving literacy is crucial for fostering informed communities and promoting social progress.