​Article 26 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights states that everyone has a right to education. Despite this fact, today 72 million children do not have access to education. This is why it is necessary to celebrate the International Day of Education in order to spread awareness and trying to make a change. Since 2018, the 24th of January is dedicated to this topic. The resolution was adopted by the United Nations and coauthorised by Nigeria and 58 member states.
The theme of the International Education Day 2024 is „Learning for lasting peace“. As 2 billion people, which is a quarter of humanity, live in conflict-affected areas, this theme is of great importance. Moreover, providing education for everyone is part of the sustainable development goals as well as a fundamental human right.
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Education has always been a significant aspect in our society. Humans started to acquire knowledge and skills already a long time ago. Over the time the education methods changed a lot, especially in terms of internet and AI. With the help of the internet, research can be facilitated a lot which leads to enormous amount of new possibilities. Languages can be teached by an application, dictionaries are accessible online with just one click and information can be found within seconds. Moreover, reading plays an important role when it comes to self-education. Due to the invention of e-readers, reading books is now possible in a more easy way which makes it more attractive, especially to young people.
But not everywhere in the world education is accessible without obstacles. Especially in developing countries, children do not have access to basic education due to inequalities regarding sex, health and cultural identity. Many are forced to abandon their education in order to work and support their family. Apart from that, many counties do not provide schools with the necessary money, school materials or even teachers. Therefore, classes are overflowed and children with different educational levels are put together which does not allow the individual children to experience education that is adapted to their needs and abilities.
The fact that more than 72 million children around the world remain unschooled is unacceptable because every child on this earth has the right to education.

„Education is not a luxury, it is a basic human right“ - Madonna Ciccone

Alina is a austrian volunteer involved in The International Day of Education

Maya is a french volunteer involved in The International Holocaust Remembrance Day 

​Every year on the 17th of January, the International Mentoring Day is celebrated to acknowledge the positive impact that mentors have on individuals and communities. 
In defining mentoring, the focus is put on the act or process of helping and giving advice to a younger or less experienced person, especially in a job or at school. Mentoring applies, when someone shares their knowledge, skills and experience with another person to help them to progress. 
Mentorship has transcended traditional boundaries, expanding its reach beyond the realms of academia and corporate settings. In today's interconnected world, mentoring has become a global phenomenon, with mentors and mentees connecting across geographical, cultural, and generational divides. International Mentoring Day 2024 highlights the adaptability of mentorship in navigating the complexities of a rapidly changing world.
The rise of digital platforms and communication technologies has revolutionized the way mentorship operates. In 2024, mentors and mentees can easily connect regardless of physical proximity. Virtual mentorship programs have become increasingly popular, providing opportunities for mentorship on a global scale. These technological advancements have democratized access to mentorship, making it more inclusive and accessible to individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Mentorship programs are not only about individual growth but also contribute to collective progress. Mentors play a crucial role in guiding the next generation of leaders, fostering innovation, and promoting sustainable practices. As mentors share their knowledge and experiences, mentees are empowered to make informed decisions that contribute to a more sustainable and interconnected world.
Mentorship is not a one-size-fits-all concept. It comes in various forms, including formal mentorship programs, peer mentorship, reverse mentorship, and even online mentoring communities. International Mentoring Day encourages acknowledging and celebrating the diversity of mentorship relationships, recognizing that each connection is unique and valuable. By embracing diverse mentorship models, individuals can find the support and guidance that best suits their needs and aspirations.
International Mentoring Day 2024 serves as a reminder of the role mentors play in shaping the leaders of tomorrow. By investing time and knowledge in the development of others, mentors contribute to building a more capable and resilient global workforce. The celebration encourages individuals to not only seek out mentors for themselves but also to consider stepping into mentorship roles, creating a cycle of growth that benefits individuals and society at large.
International Mentoring Day holds a profound connection to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), acting as a tool for progress across multiple dimensions. Mentorship plays a crucial role in advancing these global goals by promoting education, reducing inequalities, and fostering economic empowerment. Mentors guide mentees in acquiring the skills and knowledge necessary to contribute meaningfully to society, aligning with SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth). Additionally, mentorship serves as a vehicle for social inclusion, breaking down barriers and addressing gender disparities (SDG 5) and promoting equality and justice (SDG 10). Through mentorship, individuals are empowered to address environmental challenges, contributing to the goals of sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11) and responsible consumption and production (SDG 12). International Mentoring Day thus becomes a pivotal day for fostering relationships that not only shape individual lives but also contribute collectively to a sustainable and equitable global future.
International Mentoring Day 2024 is a testament to the transformative power of mentorship in an ever-changing world. As we celebrate this day, let us reflect on the mentors who have made a difference in our lives and consider how we, in turn, can contribute to the growth and development of others. By fostering a culture of mentorship on a global scale, we pave the way for a brighter, more interconnected future, where the exchange of knowledge and guidance knows no borders.