On December 3, 2018, the UN General Assembly adopted a resolution proclaiming January 24 as International Day of Education, an initiative led by Nigeria with the backing of more than fifty member states. The day was first observed in January 2019, affirming education's place as a fundamental human right and an indispensable foundation for peace and sustainable development. The observance is closely tied to Sustainable Development Goal 4, which calls for inclusive, equitable, quality education and lifelong learning opportunities for all. Despite real global progress, millions of children and young people — particularly girls, and those in conflict zones or living in poverty — still lack adequate access to education, jeopardizing their futures and slowing the development of their communities. Education ministries, international organizations, and schools around the world mark the day through policy discussions, campaigns supporting education in crisis and conflict settings, and the launch of reports and initiatives aimed at closing education gaps between countries and social groups. Many events also spotlight teachers and innovative approaches to learning.