A Unesco-sponsored conference on literacy was convened to establish a working definition for functional literacy relevant to the Caribbean; to develop strategies aimed at eradicating illiteracy by the year 2000 or achieving a substantial reduction in illiteracy; to assess skills for the production of materials for adult literacy; to develop strategies for linking literacy efforts with the attainment of skills; and to develop a draft plan for the International Decade of Literacy. A total of 53 persons from 10 Caribbean countries participated. The opening address was given by Burchell Whiteman, who noted that the challenge was not only to devise strategies for adult literacy, but also to ensure that basic education becomes a reality for all children by the end of this century. The 14 formal sessions of the conference included a brief review of literacy in the region, technical presentations, workshop sessions, a roundtable discussion on literacy in the workplace, and an address by Jamaica's Minister of Education, Carlyle Dunkley, on "Education for All--Implications for Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Countries." The draft action plan devised at the conference included a mission statement; a definition of functional literacy; and the recognition of needs in the areas of research, public awareness planning, organizational structure, training, infrastructure, budget considerations, motivation and recruitment, mobilization of interests, situational analysis, and evaluation. (The text of a resolution passed at the convention and a list of participants are appended.) (KC)