Definitions

Data refer to the proportion of residents (i.e., Singapore citizens and permanent residents) within the specified age group (15-24 years, and 15 years and above) who are able to read with understanding (e.g., a newspaper).

Concepts

From 1980 onwards, data pertain to resident population (i.e., Singapore citizens or permanent residents).

Computational Method

(Number of residents in the specified age group, who are literate) / (Number of residents in the corresponding age group) x 100%
Persons whose literacy is not known from surveys or administrative records are excluded from the computation of literacy rate.

Disaggregation

Disaggregation is available by age groups (15 years & above and 15-24 years)

Data Source

Singapore Department of Statistics (DOS)

Data Collection

Data are derived based on information as reported in household surveys as well as administrative data. Persons whose literacy is not known from surveys or administrative records are excluded from the computation of literacy rate.

Prior to 2011, youth literacy data are only available during Census years. After 2021, literacy data will only be available at 5-yearly intervals from the Census of Population and General Household Survey.

Time Period

Youth literacy: 1970 onwards
Adult literacy: 1960 onwards

Frequency

Every 5 years

SDG Global Metadata

Link to United Nations SDG global metadata

Indicator 4.6.1