Basic Information about International Day of Education
International Day of Education is observed on 24 January every year to celebrate the role of education in peace and development. This observation also shows the importance of education for sustainable development.
Observed on: January 24
Organized by: UN, UNESCO
Introduced in: 2018 (UN Declaration), 2019 (First Observation)
Observed: Worldwide
About International Day of Education
United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution on December 3, 2018 which declares January 24 as International Day of Education. First observation was done on January 24, 2019. This observation is adopted to celebrate the role of education for peace and development. The observation is also in line with UN 2030 agenda of Sustainable Development. This observation will also help in highlighting the importance and benefits of education for humanity.
Some countries have their own day for education. In India National Education Day is observed on November 11 to commemorate the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (first education minister of independent India).
Education is considered as a human right, public good and a public responsibility for years. But still, millions of children and youth includes a large portion of girls not attend school, and millions of children and adolescents cannot read and do basic math. Also due to war, conflict and displacement, many children and youth refugees are also out of school.
Education also plays a major role in eradication of poverty, promoting gender equality, environmental sustainability, improving health and sanitation, developing skills, economic and social development, and building peaceful and resilient societies.
Activities and Programs on the Day
The resolution requests all government and public organizations, educational and academic institutes, civil society, non-governmental organizations, and the people to participate in the observation with different programs and activities. UNESCO is facilitating the annual observance in close collaboration with main education actors.
Various actions and programs are organized in connection with the day to promote education as a fundamental right. Programs are also conducted to improve the quality of education, developing skills, promote innovation, etc.
Theme for International Day of Education
International Day of Education 2020 Theme is “Recover and Revitalize Education for the COVID-19 Generation”
Theme for Day of Education 2020 was “Learning for people, planet, prosperity, and peace“