Date: Saturday, 24 January 2026; 8th Annual day
Slogan:
Education is a human right, a public good, and a responsibility.
Coordinator:
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
Objectives:
The International Day of Education is annually celebrated for the following purposes:
- To celebrate the key role of education in building sustainable and resilient societies.
- To recognize education’s contribution to achieving all other Sustainable Development Goals.
Inception:
International Day of Education was observed for the first time on January 24, 2019.
History:
On 3 December 2018, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution A/RES/73/25, proclaiming January 24 as the International Day of Education to celebrate education’s role in bringing global peace and sustainable development. The resolution called on all stakeholders, including member states, organizations of the UN system, civil societies, non-governmental organizations, academic institutions, the private sector, individuals, and other relevant stakeholders, to observe the International Day of Education every year.
The adoption of “International Day of Education” was co-proposed by Nigeria and 58 other member states, aiming to demonstrate the unwavering political will to support transformative actions for inclusive, equitable, and quality education for all.
Why Do We Mark the International Day of Education?
Education is key to sustainable development. When the international community adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development in September 2015, it recognized that education is essential for the success of all 17 of its goals.
International Day of Education is a call to action, urging individuals, organizations, and policymakers to take solid steps toward ensuring that all learners acquire the knowledge and skills needed to promote sustainable development.
Without inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong opportunities for all, countries will not succeed in achieving sustainable development goals.
Annual theme in recent years:
2026 theme: “The Power of Youth in Co-creating Education: Advancing SDG 4 From the
Frontlines.”
2025 theme: “AI and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation.”
2024 theme: “Learning for Lasting Peace.”
2023 theme: “To Invest in People, Prioritize Education.”
2022 theme: “Changing Course, Transforming Education.”
2021 theme: “Recover and Revitalize Education for the COVID-19 Generation.”
Official website:
https://www.un.org/en/observances/education-day
