Fiji, Oct. 2 -- Pacific Island countries must urgently strengthen literacy education by combining traditional teaching with digital tools, but the key to success will always be empowering teachers, says Dr Michelle Belisle.

Speaking at the 2025 International Literacy Day celebrations, the Pacific Community's Director of Educational Quality and Assessment Programme (EQAP) said literacy challenges across the region remain stark.

"Literacy skills - speaking, listening, reading and writing - are essential for the empowerment of citizens and for ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in society," Dr Belisle said.

"But literacy is more than just being able to read, write, speak and listen; literacy is about applying ...