International Day of Education 2026: UNESCO Celebrates Youth Power on January 24
The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) will observe the International Day of Education 2026 on Saturday, January 24, 2026. This annual global event is dedicated to recognising the pivotal role of education in fostering peace, development, and human dignity worldwide. The celebrations will feature a series of hybrid and online activities, with UNESCO hosting key events at its headquarters in Paris, France, to underscore the transformative impact of education for all individuals.
Theme and Significance of International Day of Education 2026
The theme for International Day of Education 2026, as announced by UNESCO, is "The power of youth in co-creating education." This theme emphasises that young people, who constitute over half of the global population, are not just recipients of educational systems but vital partners in shaping these systems for the future. It highlights the necessity of involving youth in decisions related to the design, delivery, and governance of learning, especially in a world undergoing rapid technological and social changes.
By focusing on youth as co-creators, the theme aims to acknowledge their potential to contribute to inclusive, equitable, and future-ready learning environments that align with their aspirations and needs. This approach supports Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG4), which seeks to "ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all."
History of International Day of Education
The history of the International Day of Education traces back to December 3, 2018, when the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 73/25, proclaiming January 24 as the International Day of Education. This resolution was established to celebrate the role of education in peace and development globally. The first observance occurred on January 24, 2019, marking it as an annual event to reaffirm global commitments to education as a fundamental human right and a key driver of the Sustainable Development Goals.
Events and Activities for 2026
According to UNESCO, the 2026 celebrations will bring together youth, students, and international decision-makers to discuss meaningful engagement of young people in education systems and policy-making. The event will include:
- Hybrid and online gatherings at UNESCO headquarters in Paris, France.
- Youth-led discussions and webinars focusing on storytelling and leadership in education.
- Social media campaigns to encourage wider participation and sharing of best practices that support youth involvement in education.
These activities aim to amplify the voices of young people worldwide and promote youth-led initiatives that can transform education systems for a sustainable and equitable future.
Importance of Youth Engagement in Education
Engaging youth in education is crucial for several reasons:
- Innovation: Young people bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas to educational practices.
- Inclusivity: Their involvement ensures that learning environments are more inclusive and reflective of diverse needs.
- Sustainability: Youth participation helps in building education systems that are adaptable and sustainable in the long term.
By empowering youth as co-creators, UNESCO aims to foster a global education landscape that is not only equitable but also prepared to meet future challenges.
