National Education Day, celebrated on November 11, honors Maulana Abul Kalam Azad’s contributions to India’s educational system and highlights the role that education plays in the country’s development.
National Education Day: Historical Background and Significance
India commemorates National Education Day on November 11 each year to mark the birth of the India’s first education minister, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. A pioneer in education and an advocate of freedom, Azad believed that education was essential to the development of both the person and the country.
In September 2008, the Government of India formally declared November 11 as National Education Day. This annual celebration honors Azad’s legacy and acknowledges his contributions to India’s educational system. Azad was adamant that education was a fundamental human right and the foundation of societal progress. The National Education Day serves as a reminder of the importance of education in empowering people and communities, promoting national advancement, and enabling citizens to make knowledgeable decisions about their government.
National Education Day also aims to emphasize how education can lift society and propel it forward by equipping citizens with the skills and information they need to contribute to national development.
Maulana Abul Kalam Azad had a huge impact on India’s educational system. Therefore, this day serves as a reminder of the importance of education as a fundamental right and a way of progressing society. In addition to cultural programs, students can engage in debates, discussions, and thematic programs centered on Azad’s teachings and accomplishments.
To address current issues in the Indian educational system, institutions arrange conferences or seminars where shareholders and experts can identify problems and propose solutions.
Who was Maulana Abul Kalam Azad?
Born on November 11, 1888, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad was a scholar, a senior politician of the Indian National Congress, and a freedom fighter. Azad showed a strong interest in education at an early age and performed exceptionally well in school. He continued his education in Cairo at the esteemed Al-Azhar University.
Azad, India’s first education minister, played a key role in establishing the educational system in India. He established the groundwork for several of the top educational establishments in the nation, such as the University Grants Commission (UGC) and the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE). Azad also set high standards for technical education by spearheading the founding of India’s first Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) at Kharagpur.
In 1992, Azad received the highest civilian honor in India, the Bharat Ratna, for his outstanding contributions to national service and education.
National Education Day not only honors Azad’s legacy but also serves as a day to reflect on the role of education in India’s progress.
Theme of National Education Day, 2024:
The theme of National Education Day 2024 is inclusive and high-quality education. This topic encourages outstanding education, which provides individuals with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in an ever-changing world. Developing critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence will be key to academic success.
Few Inspiring Quotes by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad:
- “Education imparted by heart can bring revolution in the society.”
- “Educationists should build the capacities of the spirit of inquiry, creativity, entrepreneurial and moral leadership among students and become their role model.”
- “Teaching by the tongue can be perspired, but good deeds can stay stronger.”
- “Many people plant trees, but few of them get fruit from them.”
- “Climbing to the top demands strength, whether it is to the top of Mount Everest or to the top of your career.”
