This year, International Day of Education is intended to raise awareness about effective approaches in education towards peace while ensuring commitment to their implementation.

International Day of Education is observed on the 24th of January every year, dedicated to education. 

In a statement, UNESCO says it dedicates the day to the crucial role education and teachers play in countering hate speech.

It says the world is seeing a surge of violent conflicts paralleled by a concerning rise of intolerance and discrimination, in particular, hate speech. 

UNESCO states that a transformed and well-resourced education system can be an effective long-term preventative tool that protects, builds, and sustains peace before, during, and after conflict.

Within that context, the body is calling for an urgent, active commitment to peace.

The day seeks to highlight and celebrate the peacemaking role of youth and educators in and through education towards just, inclusive, and peaceful societies.

Namibia will join the rest of the world in commemorating this day on Friday. 

The day is to be celebrated under the theme "Learning for Lasting Peace."