Final answer:
Nepal's rise in literacy rate to 65.9% from 2058 to 2068 BS showcases educational progress, contrasting with much lower rates in countries like Afghanistan. This improvement is significant given historical global literacy trends and current gender disparities in education, especially in low-income countries.
Step-by-step explanation:
The increase in Nepal's literacy rate to 65.9% from 2058 to 2068 BS reflects significant progress in educational attainment. This is particularly noteworthy considering that in 1870, the global literacy rate was just 19%. According to the World Bank, in the early 2000s, approximately 110 million children between ages 6 and 11 were not in school, signaling a grave issue, particularly for girls. When looking at countries like Afghanistan, where the literacy rate for women is remarkably low at 12 percent, it becomes evident that the rise in literacy in Nepal is an encouraging sign.
Comparative international data, such as the figures from UNESCO, show that even though literacy rates across the globe have been improving over the past decades, low-income countries often struggle with gender disparities in literacy. In nations like Afghanistan, Benin, and Nigeria, the gap between male and female literacy rates underscores the need for ongoing educational efforts and increased awareness regarding adult literacy, especially for women.
Overall, the improvement in Nepal's literacy rate is commendable and indicative of advancement in education policies and access to schooling. However, it's also a reminder that continued support and innovative strategies are necessary to sustain these gains and address gender imbalances in education.