UNESCO's 2004 literacy prizes go to Mauritius, Brazil ,China

Addis Ababa, May 18(ENA)-- The United Nations Educational, Cultural and Scientific Organization (UNESCO) awarded its 2004 International Literacy Prizes to programs in Mauritius, Brazil and China.

A press release by the organization said that UNESCO prizes are awarded in recognition of particularly effective contributions to the fight against illiteracy, which was one of its priorities.

The jury met at UNESCO headquarters in Paris gave particular emphasis on activities that places priorities for women affairs and literacy, it said.

The release indicated that the three winners were chosen from 28 candidates and they would receive their prizes in their own countries on International Literacy Day to be marked on 8, September 2004.