By Precious Mawusi Kpornyo, Senior Communications Specialist, Communications Committee
On January 24, the world marks the International Day of Education, a United Nations commemoration that celebrates the role education plays in peace and sustainable development.
Similarly, here at UNA-Atlanta, we believe education comprises more than schooling. It is a public good, and a shared public responsibility. Education helps people gain knowledge, build skills, and get better opportunities. Yet millions are still being left behind. UNESCO notes that globally, 250 million children and youth are out of school, and 763 million adults are illiterate. This is a clear reminder that the right to education is still not equally realized.
2026 Theme: The Power of Youth in Co-Creating Education
The 2026 International Day of Education celebration highlights a powerful truth. Young people are instrumental in shaping the future of education. UNESCO emphasizes that youth under 30 make up more than half of the world’s population, yet they are often most affected by poverty, inequality, and limited access to quality education and decent work. Engaging young people in education policy and practice is critical in such a time of rapid technological and social change.
This year, UNESCO is convening a global hybrid event at its headquarters in Paris on January 23, bringing youth and students together with international decision-makers, and sharing fresh insights on youth participation in education policymaking.
How to Observe the Day
International Day of Education is a moment to move from celebration to action here in Atlanta. Consider engaging your organization through activities such as:
On this International Day of Education, we are reminded that change in our education systems becomes stronger when they are built with young people at the hem of affairs. By investing in high-quality education and creating real space for youth leadership, we take a meaningful step toward a sustainable world.
On January 24, the world marks the International Day of Education, a United Nations commemoration that celebrates the role education plays in peace and sustainable development.
Similarly, here at UNA-Atlanta, we believe education comprises more than schooling. It is a public good, and a shared public responsibility. Education helps people gain knowledge, build skills, and get better opportunities. Yet millions are still being left behind. UNESCO notes that globally, 250 million children and youth are out of school, and 763 million adults are illiterate. This is a clear reminder that the right to education is still not equally realized.
2026 Theme: The Power of Youth in Co-Creating Education
The 2026 International Day of Education celebration highlights a powerful truth. Young people are instrumental in shaping the future of education. UNESCO emphasizes that youth under 30 make up more than half of the world’s population, yet they are often most affected by poverty, inequality, and limited access to quality education and decent work. Engaging young people in education policy and practice is critical in such a time of rapid technological and social change.
This year, UNESCO is convening a global hybrid event at its headquarters in Paris on January 23, bringing youth and students together with international decision-makers, and sharing fresh insights on youth participation in education policymaking.
How to Observe the Day
International Day of Education is a moment to move from celebration to action here in Atlanta. Consider engaging your organization through activities such as:
- Town halls that invite learners to share what they want to see changed in schools and universities
- Student advisory circles that meaningfully inform programs, services, and learning experiences
- Storytelling campaigns that spotlight students’ journeys, challenges, and aspirations
- Interactive workshops focused on strengthening youth participation in decision-making in schools and communities
On this International Day of Education, we are reminded that change in our education systems becomes stronger when they are built with young people at the hem of affairs. By investing in high-quality education and creating real space for youth leadership, we take a meaningful step toward a sustainable world.
