International Day of Education: Celebrating Children’s Right to Learn and Building a Brighter Future
January 24 is recognised each year as the International Day of Education, a global moment to celebrate the power of education in driving peace, sustainable development, and human dignity. Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2018, this day highlights education not only as a fundamental human right but as a vital foundation for children’s growth, protection, and future opportunities.
Education transforms lives. It gives children the tools to read, think critically, solve problems, and participate fully in their communities. It is essential for breaking cycles of poverty, promoting equality between girls and boys, and opening doors to better health, economic prospects, and social well-being. Despite this, hundreds of millions of children around the world are still denied quality schooling — a stark violation of their right to learn and develop.
Why Education Matters for Every Child
The right to education is enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Convention on the Rights of the Child, which calls on all countries to make education accessible at every level. Yet, stubborn barriers remain:
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Millions of children are out of school due to poverty, conflict, or displacement.
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Basic literacy and numeracy levels remain low in many regions, undermining children’s long-term development.
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Girls, refugees, and children with disabilities are often the most excluded from quality learning.
Every child deserves a safe and supportive learning environment — a place where they can discover their talents, explore new ideas, and learn skills that will allow them to shape their own destinies. Education equips children to make informed decisions, advocate for their rights, and become responsible citizens in peaceful, resilient societies.
Achieving Sustainable Development Through Education
International Day of Education also reinforces how central learning is to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, especially Goal 4, which aims to “ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all.” Achieving this goal would significantly reduce inequality, improve health outcomes, and create stronger economies by empowering young people with knowledge and skills for the future.
The theme for 2026 — “The power of youth as co-creators of education” — highlights how students and young people themselves must be engaged as partners in shaping education systems that truly reflect their needs and aspirations.
Turning Awareness into Action
Celebrating International Day of Education is more than symbolic — it is a call to action. Governments, communities, families, and educators must work together to:
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Invest in quality schools and trained teachers so every child can learn in a supportive environment.
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Break down barriers that keep children out of school, including gender discrimination, conflict, and economic hardship.
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Support inclusive learning for all, especially the most marginalised.
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Ensure that education systems adapt to technological change and future job markets.
A Future Built on Learning
On this International Day of Education, the world reminds itself that education is central to children’s rights, safety, and development. When children are educated, they are protected from exploitation and equipped to participate meaningfully in society. When education is prioritised, communities become stronger, more peaceful, and better prepared to face future challenges.
Every child’s right to learn is not just a goal — it is a foundation for global peace, prosperity, and human dignity. Today, and every day, let us recommit to making that right a reality for all.
Source of Image:iStock
