International Day of Education 2026: Why Education Matters for Every Child
International Day of Education is observed every year on January 24. In 2026, the day highlights the urgent need to ensure every child has access to safe, inclusive and quality education.
Save the Children works in the United States and around the world to reach children who are most at risk of missing out on learning because of poverty, conflict, displacement or discrimination. Millions of children are being denied their right to education simply because of who they are or where they live.
International Day of Education: Key Facts
- Date: January 24, 2026
- Established by: United Nations General Assembly (2018)
- Purpose: To highlight education’s role in peace, development and equality
- Why it matters: Education protects children’s health, safety and future opportunities
History of International Day of Education
International Day of Education was established by the United Nations to recognize education as a fundamental human right and a driver of global progress.
In December 2018, January 24th was announced by the United Nations General Assembly as the International Day of Education. The adoption was meant to be a declaration of the role that education plays in peace and development.
In fact, the General Assembly is responsible for designating all particular dates as an International Day, including dates like World Refugee Day, World Food Day and World AIDS Day.
According to the UN, "international days are proposed to the UN General Assembly by Member States. The General Assembly then decides by consensus whether to adopt the resolution establishing the particular day."
Why International Day of Education Matters
Education is one of the most powerful tools to protect children and help them thrive. In emergencies, education can mean safety, stability and hope. Yet millions of children are still out of school due to poverty, conflict, extreme weather disasters and ongoing crises.
To address this learning gap, Save the Children supports Catch-up Clubs throughout many of our global programs. These clubs have been successful in improving children’s literacy in just 13 weeks.
How to Observe International Day of Education 2026
Individuals, families and communities can observe International Day of Education 2026 by supporting learning at home, honoring educators and advocating for every child’s right to education.
There are so many ways to celebrate International Day of Education, including the following activities:
Honor a memorable educator in your life with a donation in their name
A donation made in honor of a teacher or educator who has had an impact on your life is a great way to celebrate International Day of Education 2026 by giving back.
Save the Children helps children get ready for kindergarten and learn to read by third grade — a major indicator of future success. We’re especially focused on reaching vulnerable children in rural America where early learning resources are scarce. Globally, we ensure that no child’s learning stops because they are caught up in crisis.
Your donation today supports our work to keep children healthy, educated and safe.
Support at-home learning opportunities.
Our experts have put together a list of fun, free educational websites for kids, as well as phone and tablet apps, to help keep kids learning at home.
Embrace the International Day of Education
Every child deserves the opportunity to learn. A good quality education helps children reach their full potential.
This International Day of Education 2026, your donation helps ensure children can learn—no matter the circumstances. Save the Children supports early learning, literacy and education in emergencies so that no child is left behind.
What is International Day of Education?
International Day of Education is a global observance recognized by the United Nations to highlight the role education plays in peace and development. It draws attention to the importance of ensuring all children have access to quality education, especially those most at risk of missing out due to poverty, conflict or crisis.
When is International Day of Education 2026?
International Day of Education is observed every year on January 24. In 2026, it will be recognized on January 24, continuing the United Nations’ annual commitment to advancing education worldwide.
Why is International Day of Education important?
International Day of Education is important because education is essential to children’s safety, health, happiness and future opportunities. Extended time out of school—due to crises such as conflict, poverty or extreme weather—can have lasting impacts on children’s well-being and life choices. Education helps protect children and enables them to reach their full potential.
Who established International Day of Education?
International Day of Education was established by the United Nations General Assembly in December 2018. The General Assembly designates international days to recognize issues of global importance, including education, peace and development.
How does Save the Children support education?
Save the Children works in the United States and around the world to ensure children can access safe, quality learning opportunities. Our programs help children prepare for kindergarten, learn to read by third grade and continue learning during crises. Globally, we work to ensure no child’s education is interrupted because of conflict, displacement or disaster.
How can people observe International Day of Education?
People can observe International Day of Education by honoring educators, supporting children’s learning at home and advocating for quality education for all children. Donating in honor of a teacher or supporting organizations that protect children’s right to education are meaningful ways to take action.
