International Day of Education

International Day of Education is a global observance held annually on January 24. This day was established by the United Nations to celebrate the role of education in bringing about global peace, sustainable development, and individual empowerment.

History of International Day of Education

The United Nations General Assembly officially proclaimed January 24 as the International Day of Education on December 3, 2018. The resolution was co-authored by Nigeria and 58 other member states, demonstrating a collective international commitment to transformative learning. The first celebration took place in 2019, emphasizing that education is a fundamental human right and a public responsibility that is essential for the success of all 17 Sustainable Development Goals.

The history of this day is linked to the Education 2030 Agenda, which seeks to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for everyone. Despite significant progress in global literacy rates over the last century, millions of children and adolescents remain out of school due to poverty, conflict, and discrimination. By designating a specific day for education, the UN intended to create an annual milestone for governments and organizations to measure their progress and address the widening gap in digital and physical learning resources. ¹

Why is International Day of Education important?

This day is vital because it highlights education as the primary tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and reducing social inequalities. Quality education provides individuals with the skills necessary for employment, but it also fosters critical thinking and empathy, which are necessary for maintaining peaceful societies. Without equal access to learning, marginalized groups remain excluded from the global economy, hindering the overall growth of their nations.

The observance also focuses on the protection of education during times of crisis. In many parts of the world, schools are targeted during conflicts, or environmental disasters force classrooms to close. International Day of Education advocates for the safety of students and teachers and pushes for the integration of climate change and environmental literacy into standard curricula. It serves as a reminder that investing in a child’s education is an investment in the long-term stability and health of the planet.

• It reinforces the status of education as a fundamental human right
• It promotes gender equality by advocating for girls’ access to schools
• It highlights the need for vocational training and adult literacy programs
• It supports the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals
• It encourages international cooperation to bridge the digital divide in learning

How to Celebrate International Day of Education

Participating in this holiday often involves supporting local schools or educational charities through donations of books, supplies, or time. Many people choose to volunteer as tutors or mentors to help students who may be falling behind in their studies. On a broader scale, individuals can use their voices to advocate for better funding for public education and the protection of teachers’ rights. Learning a new skill or starting a free online course is also a popular way to honor the spirit of lifelong learning.

In the digital space, the day is marked by webinars and virtual conferences hosted by UNESCO and other global organizations. Educators share innovative teaching methods and discuss how to integrate technology effectively into the classroom. You can celebrate by sharing educational resources on social media or by thanking a teacher who made a significant impact on your life. Many communities organize “read-athons” or science fairs to engage children and demonstrate that learning can be an exciting and communal experience.

• Donate books or school supplies to a local classroom or library
• Thank a former teacher or mentor for their guidance and support
• Start a free online course to learn a new professional or personal skill
• Volunteer your time to help a student with their homework or reading
• Share a meaningful educational quote or resource on your social media

International Day of Education Dates Table

1. https://www.un.org/en/observances/education-day[↩]