KARACHI:
The unanimous declaration by the United Nations (UN) designating 24th January as the International Day of Education (IDED) underscores a strong political will to promote inclusive, equitable and quality education globally. Co-authored by multiple Member States, this international consensus highlights the pivotal role of education in constructing sustainable and resilient societies. It emphasises that education is not merely a means to an end but a fundamental driver for achieving all Sustainable Development Goals. IDED serves as a compelling reminder of education’s transformative impact in fostering a more peaceful, just and sustainable world reflecting the collective commitment of the United Nations General Assembly to leverage education as a catalyst for positive global change.
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) plays a pivotal role in facilitating the annual observance of IDED. Collaborating closely with key education actors, UNESCO reinforces the importance of education in fostering peace, development and global cooperation. The resolution encourages stakeholders, including Member States, UN organisations, civil society, non-governmental organisations, academic institutions, the private sector and individuals, to actively participate in observing IDED. IDED serves as a compelling testament to the profound influence education can exert on global peace and development, demanding an immediate commitment to inclusive learning in the face of 21st-century challenges.
In Pakistan, the observance of IDED should be a comprehensive initiative involving educational institutions, government bodies and civil society. It must include seminars, workshops and conferences to tackle current challenges in the education sector. Schools and universities should actively host events that underscore the significance of inclusive, equitable and quality education. Government agencies shall leverage the occasion to announce policies enhancing educational accessibility and quality. Community engagement through awareness campaigns and social media discourse can help amplify the importance of education as a catalyst for positive change in our society.
Dr Intikhab Ulfat
Karachi
Published in The Express Tribune, January 23rd, 2024.
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