The International Day of Education is observed every year on January 24 to honour the role of education in peace, and development. The day spotlights global educational challenges, celebrates milestones, and motivates efforts to make quality education accessible to all.
History
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) proclaimed January 24 as the International Day of Education on December 3, 2018. This declaration stemmed from a growing recognition of education as a fundamental human right.
Education is enshrined as a right under Article 26 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted in 1948. The United Nations also emphasises education in Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4). The SDG4 aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all by 2030.
Importance of Education
Education is the cornerstone of individual and societal progress. It equips people with knowledge, skills, and values that foster personal growth and active citizenship.
Why is education vital?
- Empowerment: Education empowers individuals to make informed decisions and pursue their dreams.
- Economic Growth: Educated societies tend to experience higher economic productivity and innovation.
- Equality: Education bridges gaps in opportunity, promoting gender equality and social inclusion.
- Peace and Stability: Educated communities are more likely to resolve conflicts peacefully and contribute to global harmony.
However, despite its significance, millions of children and adults worldwide still lack access to quality education. The International Day of Education highlights the need to address these inequalities and build resilient educational systems.
International Day of Education 2025 Theme
The seventh International Day of Education in 2025 will explore the theme: “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation.” This theme highlights how education can help individuals navigate, adapt to, and influence the rapid advancements in artificial intelligence and automation, ensuring technology serves humanity’s best interests.
Education in Focus: 2024 Highlights
In 2024, despite rising global conflicts, UNESCO kept education at the forefront of its agenda. Furthermore, the organization tackled issues such as peace education, digital transformation, climate change, teacher empowerment, and the importance of data-driven policymaking. Additionally, it advocated for increased funding to support education as a means of empowering individuals and communities.
Progress Towards Sustainable Development Goals
A new UNESCO report highlights efforts by countries to accelerate progress toward the education-related Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 4). The report showcases how nations are transforming their education systems to meet global challenges.
This observance underscores the transformative power of education and calls for global efforts to ensure equitable learning opportunities for all.
The International Day of Education is a celebration of education’s transformative power and its potential to create a more equitable world.
