National Education Day [11th November, 2023]

Every year, 11th November is observed as National Education Day in India to commemorate the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. Azad was independent India's first education minister and contributed significantly to laying the foundation of India's education system. To honor his efforts, the Ministry of Human Resource Development announced 11th November as 'National Education Day' in 2008.

Azad was a leader when it came to shaping the education system of India. The UGC, AICTE, and Secondary School Board were established during his tenure. Read the information below to know more about Azad, National Education Day, and its history.

National Education Day 2023

As education minister, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad gave Independent India the leadership and infrastructure it needed. To honor his outstanding contribution, 11th November is celebrated as National Education Day in India every year. Schools, universities, and even government offices observe this day and pay tribute to Azad in their own way.

Some common observances on Education Day in India include talk discussions, poster-making competitions, speeches, and other events. Find more details below:

National Education Day Theme 2022

The Ministry of Human Resource Development sets a different theme for National Education Day every year. The theme is set keeping in mind the targets of the country's education sector and the progress made in that sector. The events for the day are planned according to the theme.

This year, Education Day will be celebrated on Friday, 11th November. The National Education Day 2022 Theme is "Changing Course, Transforming Education." This theme indicates a need to reform the education system and make it adaptable to the current times.

History of National Education Day

Celebrating National Education Day is a tribute to Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. As a pioneering thinker and intellectual, his role in the struggle for freedom is inspiring. He was passionate about the education sector and worked to promote social fraternity. Find more information about Azad and his contributions in the education sector that led him to be celebrated on National Education Day below.

Who was Maulana Abul Kalam Azad?

• Maulana Abul Kalam Azad served as India’s 1st Minister of Education from 15 August 1947 – 2 February 1958.
• During his tenure, he established some of the best educational institutions in the nation.
• He served in the Indian independence movement as well.
• Azad was one of the most influential leaders of the time and believed deeply in socialism and secularism.
• To remember his legacy, the Ministry of Minority Affairs established Maulana Azad Education Foundation in 1989.
• He was awarded the posthumous honor of the Bharat Ratna, India's highest civilian honor, in 1992.

Contribution of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad to the Education Sector

• The UGC, AICTE, the Kharagpur Institute for Higher Education, the University Board of Education, and the Secondary School Board were established during Azad's tenure.
• He also helped establish educational institutions such as Jamia Millia Islamia and IIT Kharagpur.
• Many leaders remember and commemorate Azad's contribution to his efforts in creating a foundation for India's strong education system.
• Maulana Abul Kalam Azad established the Sahitya Academy, Lalit Kala Academy, Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Sangeet Natak Academy, and the Scientific and Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).

Significance of National Education Day

National Education Day is celebrated to enhance and improvise the quality of education for students in the country. The day also commemorates Azad's contribution to laying the foundation for an independent Indian education system.

Azad was also a strong advocate of universal primary education, girls' education, free compulsory education for all children under the age of 14, vocational training, and technical education.

How is National Education Day Celebrated?

In September 2008, the central government declared 11th November as National Education Day. The first celebration of National Education Day was held in Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi, by then-President Pratibha Patil. Here is how this day is celebrated in the country:

• National Education Day is celebrated annually by hosting several informative and enjoyable seminars, essay symposiums, and rallies at various schools.
• On this day, students and teachers come together to share the importance of literacy and the country's commitment to all aspects of education.
• National Education Day pays homage to all the fundamental contributions made by Abul Kalam Azad to India's education system.

FAQs about National Education Day

Q1. When is National Education Day celebrated in India?

National Education Day is celebrated on 11th November every year in India. This day was declared 'National Education Day' by the Ministry of Human Resource Development in 2008 to honor Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, India's first Education Minister.

Q2. Whose birthday is observed as National Education Day in India?

The birth of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad is celebrated as National Education Day in India. This day is observed on 11th November each year, and the Ministry of Human Resource Development declared this day as 'Education Day' after Azad's contributions to the Indian education sector.

Q3. What is the theme of National Education Day 2023?

The National Education Day 2023 theme is "Innovative Learning for a Sustainable Future." This theme underscores the importance of creative and forward-thinking educational approaches and their role in addressing global challenges, especially those related to environmental sustainability and societal progress.

Q4. Why is National Education Day Celebrated on 11th November?

National Education Day is celebrated on 11th November because this date marks the birth anniversary of the first Minister of Education of independent India, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad.

Q5. When was National Education day established?

National Education Day was established by the Ministry of Human Resource Development in 2008. Since then, 11th November has been celebrated as National Education Day in India every year.