About International Day of Education
The International Day of Education is observed on 24 January. The UN General Assembly proclaimed it in 2018 to celebrate the role of education in peace and development and to call for inclusive, quality learning for all.
The UN General Assembly proclaimed 24 January as the International Day of Education in December 2018, and it was first observed in 2019. The decision recognised education as a human right and a foundation for peace, equality and sustainable development.
The day draws attention to the many children and young people who still cannot go to school, or who leave without the basic skills they need. It calls on governments, communities and families to make learning inclusive, fair and lifelong.
How it is marked
UNESCO coordinates the day, and schools, universities and education groups hold talks, open days and campaigns about access to learning. Teachers and students share stories of what education has meant to them. Some organisations use it to launch book drives, scholarships or tutoring support.
In India, schools and colleges often mark it with assemblies, essay and poster activities, and discussions on topics such as girls' education and learning in the mother tongue.
What to write
Thank the people who helped you learn, or cheer on someone who is still studying.
- Sir, you stayed back every evening before my boards until I finally got algebra. Thank you. Happy Education Day.
- Going back to college at 40 takes guts. So proud of you. Happy Education Day.
- Thank you for teaching the kids in our basti every Sunday. Some of them read faster than me now.
How to wish someone on International Day of Education
gratitude for teachers and learning, and the hope that every child gets a fair chance to study
Write a few lines in your own words, pick a design and share it as one link on WhatsApp, Instagram or anywhere else. They open an animated card made just for them, with no app and no sign-up.
Language tip: English, Hindi + recipient language.
Frequently asked questions
Who declared the International Day of Education?
The UN General Assembly proclaimed 24 January as the International Day of Education in December 2018. UNESCO leads the observance.
How can schools celebrate the International Day of Education?
Schools can hold assemblies, invite former students to share their stories, run book donation drives, or ask pupils to write about what learning means to them.
What is the difference between the International Day of Education and International Literacy Day?
The International Day of Education on 24 January covers learning at every level. International Literacy Day on 8 September focuses specifically on reading and writing skills.
When is International Day of Education in 2026?
International Day of Education 2026 falls on Saturday, 24 January 2026.
What is International Day of Education?
The International Day of Education is observed on 24 January. The UN General Assembly proclaimed it in 2018 to celebrate the role of education in peace and development and to call for inclusive, quality learning for all.
Is International Day of Education a public holiday?
Holiday status for International Day of Education varies by state, employer and community in India, so check your local holiday list.
How do I wish someone on International Day of Education?
Focus on gratitude for teachers and learning, and the hope that every child gets a fair chance to study. On Kehdoo you can write a short message, pick a design and share a free animated International Day of Education card as a single link, with no app or sign-up needed.
Sources
Last verified by the Kehdoo team on .