The adult literacy rate refers to the percentage of people aged 15 and older who can read and write in a specific language. This measure is crucial for assessing the education level of a population and its ability to participate in society. Higher literacy rates often correlate with better economic opportunities and improved quality of life. Countries and organizations, such as the United Nations, track adult literacy rates to identify areas needing educational support. Efforts to improve literacy can lead to significant social and economic benefits, including increased employment opportunities and enhanced civic engagement.