Literacy rates refer to the percentage of people in a specific population who can read and write at a certain age. These rates are often used to measure the educational level of a country or region. Higher literacy rates typically indicate better access to education and resources, while lower rates may suggest challenges in these areas. Governments and organizations track literacy rates to identify areas needing improvement. For example, initiatives may be launched to enhance education in regions with low literacy rates. Understanding these statistics helps policymakers create effective strategies to promote education and improve overall quality of life in communities.