Education is widely recognised as a fundamental human right and an essential public good. Every year on January 24, the world comes together to celebrate International Education Day, which highlights the vital role of education in promoting peace and sustainable development. The day serves as a powerful reminder that inclusive and equitable quality education is the key to achieving gender equality and breaking the cycle of poverty.
International Education Day 2025 Theme
The theme of International Education Day 2025 is “Investing in People, Prioritising Education”. The theme underlines the urgent need to focus on education as the foundation of individual and societal development. With this year’s theme, the global community is called to prioritise education in policy-making and investment decisions, ensuring that every individual has access to quality learning opportunities.
State of global education: challenges and opportunities
Despite progress, significant challenges remain in the global education sector. According to UNESCO, approximately 258 million children and youth are not attending school, and nearly 617 million lack basic reading and math skills. The situation is particularly dire in sub-Saharan Africa, where less than 40% of girls complete lower secondary education. Additionally, nearly 4 million refugee children are deprived of their right to education, highlighting the urgent need for global action.
Message from the UNESCO Director-General
On the occasion of International Education Day, UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay stressed, “Education is a fundamental human right. It forms the basis of societies, economies and individual potential. Without adequate investment, this potential cannot be realized.” She called on nations to recognize the importance of education in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4) and urged governments to make education a top priority in their policies and international cooperation.
Global Initiatives and Commitments
The Transforming Education Summit held in 2022 brought together leaders from over 130 countries to reimagine education systems. The summit resulted in some commitments aimed at ensuring universal access to quality education. Key initiatives launched include:
- Support for Education in Crises
- Promoting girls’ education
- Development of basic education and digital tools
- Development of green education systems
These initiatives are designed to create inclusive learning environments and meet the educational needs of vulnerable populations.
History of International Education Day
The United Nations General Assembly declared January 24 as International Education Day in 2018. The resolution, supported by 59 member states, acknowledges the important role of education in promoting global peace and development. The day aims to reinforce efforts towards achieving inclusive and quality education for all as outlined in SDG 4.
Celebrating International Education Day 2025
The fifth International Education Day will be celebrated globally under the theme “Investing in People, Prioritizing Education”. This year’s celebration will focus on maintaining the momentum generated by previous commitments and outlining actionable steps to implement international education initiatives. In the face of challenges such as the global recession, growing inequalities, and the climate crisis, prioritizing education is more important than ever.
Significance of the Day
International Education Day highlights the need to strengthen education as a public endeavor and a common good. It also emphasizes:
- Digital Transformation in Education
- Supporting Teachers
- Protecting the Planet
- Unlocking Individual Potential
Education is a powerful tool to improve lives, enhance skills, and shape personalities. It is crucial for providing employment, opportunities to lead a decent life, and enabling individuals to adapt to technological advancements.
Objectives for 2025
According to UNESCO, the objectives of International Education Day 2025 include:
- Promote equitable and inclusive education systems
- Accelerate digital inclusion, green skills and gender equality
- Reduce inequalities in access to and completion of education
- Highlight the voices of students and teachers
These objectives aim to create more inclusive education systems and accelerate progress towards achieving SDG 4.
Conclusion
International Education Day 2025 is a reminder of the transformative power of education. It calls on all stakeholders—governments, civil society, and individuals—to prioritize education and turn commitments into actions. By doing so, we can create a world where education supports equitable societies, dynamic economies, and the limitless dreams of every learner.
FAQs
Q: What is the theme of International Education Day 2025?
Ans: The theme is “Investing in People, Prioritizing Education”.
Q: Why is International Education Day celebrated?
Ans: It is celebrated to emphasize the important role of education in promoting peace, development, and equality.
Q: When was International Education Day celebrated for the first time?
Ans: It was first celebrated in 2018 after the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution.
Q: How can education contribute to sustainable development?
Ans: Education promotes the knowledge and skills needed to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, reduce inequalities, and promote gender equality.
Q: What are the main objectives of International Education Day 2025?
Ans: The main objectives include promoting an equitable education system, advancing digital and green skills, reducing educational inequalities, and amplifying the voices of students and teachers.
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