On 24 January 2026, the world marked International Day of Education, a day designated by the United Nations to celebrate the transformative power of education and to recommit global efforts toward inclusive, equitable, and quality learning for all. This year’s theme, “The Power of Youth in Co-Creating Education,” placed youth agency at the centre of the educational conversation — recognising that young people are not just beneficiaries of education but essential partners in shaping its future.
In an age dominated by rapid technological change, education is no longer a static set of skills learned in a classroom. It is a dynamic process that requires adaptability, digital fluency, critical thinking, and the capacity to communicate effectively in an interconnected world. The young people of today must be equipped not only with knowledge but also with the tools to interpret, apply, and co-create knowledge in meaningful ways.
Why Education Matters More Than Ever in the Digital Era
The digital revolution has reconfigured how we live, work, and interact. Artificial intelligence, automation, digital media, and online communication platforms are reshaping the skills required to succeed in the 21st century. In this context, the need for comprehensive education extends beyond traditional literacy (reading and writing) to encompass:
- Digital literacy: understanding and using digital tools responsibly;
- Critical thinking: evaluating information in an era of abundant and sometimes misleading content;
- Communication skills: expressing ideas clearly and confidently in diverse settings;
- Adaptability: learning how to learn as technologies and industries evolve.
Without these competencies, young people risk being left behind in a world where information flows freely but understanding is not guaranteed.
Formal, Informal and Non-formal Learning: A Holistic Ecosystem
International Day of Education also invites us to expand our understanding of learning environments:
- Formal education refers to structured schooling systems — primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions — that follow established curricula.
- Informal education includes learning that occurs through daily life experiences, family interactions, and self-directed exploration.
- Non-formal education consists of organised learning outside formal systems, such as online courses, vocational training, mentorship programmes, and workshops.
In a digital world, these three forms of education are not separate but interconnected. A student might learn mathematical concepts in school, practice communication skills in community debates, and sharpen digital competencies through online platforms — all contributing to a richer, more resilient set of abilities.
Youth as Co-Creators of Education
The United Nations theme for 2026 recognises the indispensable role young people play in shaping education. Youth today are not passive consumers of knowledge; they are innovators, content creators, mentors, and collaborators. From developing digital learning communities to advocating for educational reforms and creating open educational resources, young people are transforming how learning is designed and delivered.
By embracing youth contributions, educational systems can become more responsive and relevant. When learners participate in creating curricula, policies, digital tools, and teaching methodologies, education becomes more engaging and effective.
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Despite tremendous progress in global enrolment and access, significant challenges remain. Millions of children and youth worldwide still lack access to quality education due to poverty, conflict, discrimination, and digital divides. Even where access exists, the question remains: Is education preparing learners for the demands of the modern world?
The answer lies in a collective commitment — from governments, educators, communities, and young people themselves — to rethink and reinvent learning for the digital age.
A Call to Action
This International Day of Education reminds us that:
- Education is a right and a foundation for peace, health, and prosperity.
- Digital tools are powerful enablers, but only when paired with critical thinking.
- Young people are not the future of education — they are the present.
As we celebrate this day, let us commit to building educational systems that are inclusive, relevant, and empowering — systems that recognise the voices of youth as equal partners in co-creating the world they will lead.
WRITTEN BY TEACHER BLESSING
