Secretary-General's Message on the Occasion of the International Day of Education 2026

Education is a human right, and a springboard to greater opportunity, dignity and peace. 

Yet around the world, 272 million children and young people lack access to education because of poverty, discrimination, conflict, displacement and disasters. 

On this International Day of Education, I call on all governments, partners and donors to prioritize education in their policies, budgets and recovery efforts. We must close the persistent gaps in financing, access and quality that lock young people out of the future they seek and deserve. 

As this year’s theme reminds us, we particularly need to listen to the voices of young people themselves, and act on their pleas for qualified teachers, relevant skills and competencies training for a changing world, and equitable access to technology. 

Together, let’s build inclusive, resilient and innovative education systems for all people.