International Day of Education will be observed worldwide on January 24, 2026, with a focus on the role of young people in shaping the future of learning. The annual observance is led by UNESCO, which will host a series of in-person and online events to mark the occasion.
The day is recognised by the United Nations as a reminder of education’s role in peace-building, economic development and social inclusion. Events this year will be held at UNESCO’s headquarters in Paris and across digital platforms, allowing students, educators and policymakers to participate from different regions.
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Theme for International Day of Education 2026
The theme for this year is “The power of youth in co-creating education.”
According to UNESCO, the focus is on recognising young people not only as learners but as active contributors to how education systems are designed and governed. With people under 30 accounting for more than half of the world’s population, the organisation has called for stronger youth participation in education policy, curriculum planning and learning innovation.
Planned activities include youth-led discussions, online forums and webinars centred on student experiences, leadership and decision-making in education. UNESCO has also encouraged individuals and institutions to share examples of youth engagement through social media and community platforms.
Why is January 24 observed as International Day of Education?
International Day of Education was formally established on December 3, 2018, when the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution 73/25, declaring January 24 as the official date of observance.
The first International Day of Education was marked on January 24, 2019. Since then, the day has been used to review global progress in education and to draw attention to gaps in access, quality and equity.
The observance is closely linked to Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which commits countries to ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education and promoting lifelong learning opportunities for all.
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Why the day matters?
Global education systems encourage governments and institutions to invest in schooling, teacher training and lifelong learning. UNESCO has repeatedly warned that millions of children and young people remain out of school or lack access to quality education, particularly in low-income and conflict-affected regions.
By centring the 2026 theme on youth participation, the organisation has underlined the need to include young voices in decisions that shape education systems in a rapidly changing social and technological environment.
