World Teachers' Day

World Teachers' Day is observed on 5 October to recognise teachers and to focus attention on the conditions needed for quality education. UNESCO established the annual observance in 1994. The date commemorates the adoption on 5 October 1966 of the UNESCO/ILO Recommendation concerning the Status of Teachers, an international standard addressing teachers' rights, responsibilities, preparation, recruitment, employment conditions and professional freedom. A later recommendation extended related principles to higher-education teaching personnel. The day therefore goes beyond thanking individual teachers; it draws attention to teacher shortages, training, workload, professional development, safety, social status and the resources educators need to support learners well. UNESCO, the ILO, UNICEF and Education International often work together around an annual theme. Schools and education systems mark the day through recognition programmes, discussions and activities celebrating educators while examining how societies can attract, prepare and retain capable teachers.

World Teachers' Day is intended to build public awareness and encourage attention to its associated global issue.