World Teachers’ Day is observed annually on October 5 to honour educators and recognise their vital role in shaping education and society.
Established in 1994, the day commemorates the adoption of the 1966 ILO/UNESCO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers, which set international standards for teachers’ rights, responsibilities and working conditions.
The year 2026 marks 60 years since the landmark recommendation was adopted.
The observance highlights the need to protect and strengthen the teaching profession while addressing the challenges facing educators worldwide.
These include adapting to rapid technological changes, responding to the effects of climate change and navigating migration and displacement.
The 2026 theme places particular emphasis on advancing teachers’ status, calling for greater recognition, support and professional standards to enable educators to create quality learning environments and deliver effective education.
