We celebrate the International Day of Education to honor the power of learning, raise awareness about access and equality, inspire policy action, and celebrate achievements in education. It reminds us that education empowers individuals, drives social and economic development, and prepares people to navigate a changing world, including new challenges like AI and automation.
1. Date of Celebration: The International Day of Education is observed annually on January 24.
2. UN Recognition: It was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2018.
3. First Celebration: The day was first celebrated on January 24, 2019.
4. Purpose: The day celebrates the role of education in peace and development worldwide.
5. Theme-Based: Each year, the UN chooses a specific theme to highlight pressing educational issues.
6. 2025 Theme: This year’s focus is “AI and Education: Preserving Agency in a World of Automation.”
7. Global Observance: Countries around the world organize events, campaigns, and discussions to mark the day.
8. SDG Connection: It reinforces Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4): Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
9. Focus on Access: The day emphasizes the importance of universal access to education, especially for marginalized groups.
10. Highlighting Innovation: It encourages innovation in teaching and learning, including digital and AI-based solutions.
11. Advocacy Tool: Governments and NGOs use the day to advocate for education reforms and investment.
12. Awareness-Raising: It promotes awareness about the impact of education on personal, social, and economic development.
13. International Collaboration: The day fosters global partnerships in education, connecting educators, policymakers, and students.
14. Celebration Formats: Activities include workshops, seminars, conferences, school programs, and media campaigns.
15. Human-Centered Approach: It underscores that education should empower learners to make informed decisions, innovate, and contribute positively to society.
EduTimes Africa, a product of Education Times Africa, is a magazine publication that aims to lend its support to close the yawning gap in Africa's educational development.
