Table of Contents
On December 3rd 2018, the United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution to observe 24th January (starting from 2019) as the International day of Education, to celebrate the role of education in development. The decision was taken during Global Education Meet held at Brussels in Belgium from 3rd to 5th December 2018.
The International Day of education is sponsored by the Nigeria’s permanent mission in the United Nations. The resolution demonstrated the world’s political will towards providing quality education to all and achieving sustainable development by 2030. It only reiterates the importance of education in development and its essentiality for sustainable development goals.
International Day of Education 2024
The International Day of Education is globally celebrated on January 24th every year. It serves as a reminder of the importance of education in shaping a better future for individuals and societies worldwide. The United Nations General Assembly established the International Day of Education to raise awareness about the need for inclusive, equal and quality education for all. This day also addresses the challenges and opportunities in the field of education.
Being announced in 2018, the International Day of Education was celebrated globally on 24th January 2019, Thursday.
The day was celebrated with a focus on improving the universal quality of education. Various public and private sectors, governmental and non-governmental organisations observed the day internationally by promoting education as the fundamental right of a child.
United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres invited the support and cooperation from all the countries to emphasize the importance of education. UNESCO also observed the day by organizing an event named ‘Maiden Celebration of International Day of Education’ which was held at the UN headquarters in New York.
Fun Quiz on International Day of Education
What is the Benefit of Celebrating “International Day of Education”?
International Day Of Education is a manifestation of world’s political power’s will to improve the standards of education and their resolution towards eradicating illiteracy. It also reiterates the importance of education for the world’s social and economical development. The observance is expected to improve the quality of education and protects the rights of the student community. The nations together, will reach out to the masses stressing on the importance of education and also the role that it plays in achieving the goal of sustainable development by 2030.
Education plays very important role in eradication of poverty, illiteracy and providing livelihood through employment, developing skills, improving health and sanitation, economical and social development, high living standards, better hygiene and reduced crime rates. Education is a one stop remedy for many social issues. It is also the most important factor leading to the UN’s sustainable development goals by 2030.
The observance also stresses the fact that the education is not only a fundamental right but also a necessity to achieve sustainable development; not to mention the role that education plays in poverty eradication, generating employment and leading to social and economical development.
Education is widely recognised as a fundamental rights and duties and a key driver of sustainable development. It empowers individuals, enhances their skills and knowledge, and enables them to contribute to their communities and economies. Access to quality education is essential for breaking the cycle of poverty, reducing inequalities, and decreasing the illiteracy rate in the world. Moreover, education is an important weapon in promoting peace, tolerance, and understanding among diverse cultures and societies.
How will “International Day Of Education” be Celebrated?
The resolution calls upon the countries, the UN member states, social activists, civil societies, education institutes, private sectors, volunteers and professionals to observe the International Day of Education in their respective capacities.
Promoting education, raising the standards of education and ensuring education for all are some of the vital points to be acted upon. UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) will play a vital role, being the United Nation’s education body.
The observance of International Day of Education stresses to the nations, the need to adapt to modernized academic programs; as the world has globalized and become interdependent.
Events will be organized to acknowledge the importance of education at every level – primary, secondary and tertiary level also the distance education as well as vocational training programs; providing opportunities to the illiterate as well as the educated, beyond the limitations of age. Such programs will stress on improving employability and the quality of life, through education.
The day not only stresses on academic education, but also on developing skills; raising individual productivity and employability.
Efforts will be made towards developing co-operation between the member states on the fields of education and sustainable development through education. The costs of all the activities related to the observance are to be met voluntarily.
Why Should India Celebrate “International Day Of Education”?
Despite being the world’s fastest growing economy, India still has a huge illiterate population – 287 Million; 37% of the world’s total. It is very important for the Indian government to co ordinate with the international community, to improve the state and quality of education in India.
Though, India has been celebrating its National education day on 11th November each year on the birth anniversary of its first education minister Maulana Abul Kalam Azad; it has remained largely a commemoration event.
By joining hands with the UN and international community on the observance of the International Day Of Education, India will open new venues for education and skill development; leading to financial as well as social development of the country.
India could tap on the opportunity of inviting more funds from international community or the United Nations, to utilize into her educational programs.
It is an era of globalization and our education system need to be the equivalent to global standards. For that, we have to be observant and receptive to global changes in the field of education.
Observing International Day of Education will substantiate India’s resolve towards eradication of illiteracy and sustainable development.
How should India Celebrate “International Day of education”?
India could celebrate the International Day Of education by roping in different organizations, education institutions and volunteers etc, to work towards the cause of education; either by manual or financial contribution.
The government of India could call upon International voluntary organizations and non government organizations to celebrate the International Day of Education, by organizing various campaigns for raising awareness and funds.
Programs could be organized to reach out mainly to the deprived sections of the society and addressing the issues which are acting as the constraints to their education.
One way of observing this day could be through diplomatic dialogue. Diplomats from the UN member states can be invited to speak on the issues of education and its effects on the society. Diplomatic dialogues will provide an in depth knowledge to our student community as well as government organizations and educational institutions; making a way for self improvement through self assessment.
Such dialogues will make India aware of the state of education around the world; providing opportunity to identify her own shortcomings and to work towards removing them.
International Day of Education theme 2024
The International Day of Education theme varies each year, reflecting the evolving challenges and opportunities in the education sector. The theme for this year 2024 is “Learning for Lasting Peace”. In the recent war-like situations in every corner of the world, this theme reflects a great message worldwide.
In recent years, International Day of Education themes have focused on issues such as inclusive education, digital learning, vocational training, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on education. These themes serve as a call to action for governments, educators, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to address the pressing issues facing education systems worldwide.
The Objective of the International Day of Education
One of the key objectives is to advocate for inclusive and equitable education for all. Despite significant progress in expanding access to education in many parts of the world, millions of children and young people still remain out of school. Marginalised groups such as girls, children with disabilities, refugees, and those living in conflict-affected areas are particularly at risk of being left behind. Addressing these disparities requires targeted efforts to remove barriers to education, including poverty, discrimination, cultural norms, and lack of infrastructure.
Also, it is equally important to focus on improving the quality of education. Access to education alone is not enough. All learners must have access to high-quality learning opportunities to develop the knowledge, skills, and competencies needed to thrive in today’s rapidly changing world. This includes promoting innovative teaching methods, integrating technology into education, and ensuring that curricula are relevant to the needs of learners and society.
Significance of the International Day of Education
The International Day of Education also provides an opportunity to recognise the vital role of teachers in shaping the future. Teachers are at the forefront of delivering quality education and play a central role in inspiring and empowering students. However, many teachers face significant challenges, including low salaries, inadequate training, and limited resources. By celebrating this day, we acknowledge the dedication and commitment of teachers around the world and advocate for greater support and investment in the teaching profession.
International Day of Education 2024 Activities
Below are four activities to Celebrate the International Education Day 2024.
- Watch the Inspirational Videos related to education with your family or friends. This activity could be done in the schools with students to motivate them with their studies. Many educational movies available on the net could be enjoyed on this day.
- Invest in the education of the nearby children who can’t afford the education.
- Share Personal Stories From School with your children and spend time with them doing fun activities and learning new skills.
- Donate To An Organization That Supports Education.
United Nations Sustainable Development Goal
The International Day of Education serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of education in shaping a more peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable world. By advocating for inclusive and equitable education for all, we can work towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4: Quality Education.
Celebrating this day each year reminds us of our commitment to ensuring that every individual has access to high-quality learning opportunities that enable them to thrive and contribute to their communities and societies.
International Day of Education: FAQs
What is the theme of International Day of Education 2024?
The International Day of Education theme 2024 is Learning for Lasting Peace
What was the theme of International Day of Education 2023?
The theme of International Day of Education 2023 was To Invest in People, Prioritize Education
When is the International Day of Education 2024 celebrated?
The International Day of Education is globally celebrated on January 24th every year
Why is International Education Day celebrated?
International Education Day is celebrated to highlight the importance of education worldwide, promoting inclusive and equitable quality education for all and fostering lifelong learning opportunities.
Has UNESCO dedicated International Education Day 2023?
Yes, UNESCO dedicated International Education Day on January 24th to reaffirm the right to education and advocate for its accessibility and quality worldwide.
