International Day of Education

International Day of Education is an annual global event aimed at promoting and honouring the crucial role that education plays in global peace and sustainable development. Established by the United Nations (UN), this observance is intended to highlight the importance of inclusive and equitable education for all. It also serves as a call to action to all governments, institutions, and individuals to make education a foremost priority, believing that access to quality education is a human right that should be respected and protected.

International Day of Education holds significant meaning for South Africa as it wrestles with challenges of inclusivity and equitability in its education sector. This day was officially recognised by the UN General Assembly in 2018, driven by the aspiration of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development to ensure inclusive and equitable education worldwide. For South Africa, a country still dealing with the educational legacies of apartheid, this focus on inclusive and equitable education aligns very closely with its national agenda. It serves as an avenue for the country to share its successes, discuss its challenges, and explore strategies for improving its education system.

In South Africa, the International Day of Education is observed both at governmental and grassroots levels. Government departments, academic institutions, non-governmental organisations, and community groups engage in various activities to commemorate this day. These activities, driven by the broader UN theme of 'Learning for people, planet, prosperity, and peace', range from policy dialogues and community workshops to public awareness campaigns. While the day is observed globally on January 24, related activities in South Africa often extend throughout the month as part of a broader focus on education.