148 saved#1,466 of 6,224

International Day of Education

On International Day of Education, let's recognize the power of education to change lives and create a brighter future for all.

Sunday

January 2027

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEJanuary 24

OBSERVED INInternationally

CATEGORYSchool

SUBCATEGORYLiteracy

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

On January 24, the world comes together to celebrate the International Day of Education! This day was established by the United Nations in 2018 to recognize the importance of education for individuals and societies. Education has been a fundamental human right since 1948 and continues to be a key factor in promoting peace, prosperity, and sustainable development. On this special day, we celebrate the power of knowledge and learning, as well as the teachers who dedicate their lives to shaping the minds of future generations. So let's spread some love for education and appreciate its impact on our lives!

TIMELINE

International Day of Education Timeline

UNESCO Formation

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) was established to promote education globally.

Universal Declaration of Human Rights

The UN General Assembly proclaimed the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which includes the right to education for all (Article 26).

Dakar Framework for Action

The World Education Forum adopted the Dakar Framework for Action, reiterating the vision of the World Declaration on Education for All.

Sustainable Development Goals

The UN adopted the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including Goal 4: Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and lifelong learning for all.

Creation of International Day of Education

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed the 24th of January as 'International Day of Education' in recognition of the crucial role of education for peace and development.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate International Day of Education

Become a mentor

Celebrate International Day of Education by sharing your knowledge and skills with others. Offer to mentor a student or someone who wants to learn something new.

ATTEND

Attend an educational event

Look for educational events happening in your community or online and attend them. This could be a workshop, seminar, or conference on a topic that interests you.

DONATE

Donate to a literacy program

Support education on a global level by donating to a literacy program or organization that helps provide access to education for those in need.

Share educational resources on social media

Spread awareness about the importance of education by sharing informative articles, videos, or resources on your social media accounts.

ORGANIZE

Organize a book drive

Encourage reading and access to books by organizing a book drive and donating the collected books to a school or library in need.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why International Day of Education is Important

Education contributes to economic growth

Investing in education has proven to have a positive impact on a country's economic growth. It not only leads to higher earning potential for individuals, but also improves overall productivity, innovation and competitiveness in industries. International Day of Education reminds us to prioritize education as a means for continued economic development and prosperity.

Education is key to breaking the cycle of poverty

By providing access to education for children in disadvantaged communities, we can help lift them out of poverty and create a better future for themselves and their families. Education helps individuals develop critical thinking skills, improve their employment opportunities, and break away from the limited opportunities often faced by those living in poverty.

Education promotes equality

International Day of Education highlights the importance of providing equal access to education for all individuals, regardless of their gender, socioeconomic status or background. A quality education can empower individuals and enable them to exercise their rights and contribute positively to society.