Every year on November 11, India observes National Education Day to commemorate the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, the nation’s first Education Minister and one of the brightest intellectuals of the freedom movement. His vision was not limited to literacy or schooling; it was about nurturing wisdom, character, and equality.
As the country celebrates National Education Day 2025, it’s the right time to revisit his ideals and understand why this day remains so relevant in shaping India’s educational future.
Born on November 11, 1888, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad was a distinguished scholar, journalist, and freedom fighter whose thoughts and leadership left a deep impact on modern India. Though his early education was deeply rooted in traditional studies, his open-minded approach led him to explore modern science, world politics, and reformist philosophies.
A passionate advocate for knowledge and justice, Azad became a key figure in India’s freedom struggle, working alongside Mahatma Gandhi and Jawaharlal Nehru. His speeches and writings inspired citizens to fight not just for political freedom but also for intellectual liberation.
After independence, as India’s first Minister of Education, Azad laid the foundation of a learning system designed to uplift every citizen, regardless of social or economic background.
The Government of India declared November 11 as National Education Day in 2008 to honor Azad’s lifelong contribution to education and nation-building.
This day is not meant to be a holiday, but rather a day of awareness and action — a time to appreciate how education shapes lives and to reaffirm our commitment to inclusive learning.
Across the country, schools, colleges, and universities hold events such as debates, drawing contests, essay writing, and educational exhibitions that highlight the importance of learning in shaping a better society.
National Education Day 2025 reminds us that education is not just a subject of study; it is the essence of progress and the pathway to a brighter India.
Maulana Azad believed that education is the foundation of national strength and unity. Long before education was declared a constitutional right, he had already envisioned free and compulsory education for every child up to the age of 14.
Under his leadership:
In one of his addresses, Azad highlighted that true national education cannot be achieved without ensuring equal opportunities for women. This belief continues to inspire gender equality movements in education today.
The theme for National Education Day 2025 is expected to align with India’s ongoing educational transformation through the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020. This policy resonates deeply with Azad’s ideas of inclusivity, creativity, and equal access.
Possible focus areas for this year’s celebration include:
In today’s fast-paced world of artificial intelligence, automation, and innovation, Azad’s principle — to blend traditional wisdom with modern science — is more meaningful than ever.
Education in 2025 isn’t just about grades or degrees; it’s about critical thinking, empathy, and problem-solving. National Education Day reminds us that real learning is not measured by marks but by the ability to build a better society.
Maulana Azad envisioned a nation where education bridges social and economic divides. He believed that literacy and learning could erase inequalities and empower marginalized communities.
In modern India, where access to education still varies widely, his vision continues to guide policymakers and educators. National Education Day stands as a reminder that every child deserves the right to quality education — irrespective of gender, geography, or background.
Education, in Azad’s view, was not just an academic pursuit but a means to achieve dignity, unity, and empowerment.
Across schools, universities, and learning centers, the day is marked by vibrant programs and interactive activities that reflect the spirit of learning and gratitude.
Typical celebrations include:
In 2025, many institutions are expected to integrate eco-learning, technology showcases, and women-led education initiatives into their events — perfectly reflecting Azad’s forward-looking ideals.
Even decades after his passing, Maulana Azad’s educational philosophy continues to influence India’s academic policies. His focus on inclusivity and innovation resonates with initiatives like Skill India, Digital India, and the National Education Policy (NEP).
Azad believed that education should be a lifelong journey — one that builds not just intellect, but also character and moral strength.
His vision aligns with global efforts such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 4 (Quality Education), which emphasizes equitable and inclusive education for all.
Azad’s guiding principle was simple yet profound: a nation cannot advance if its citizens remain uneducated. This timeless idea still fuels India’s educational reforms and aspirations.
For Maulana Azad, youth were the torchbearers of change. He believed that a nation’s progress depends on how its young minds are nurtured.
On National Education Day 2025, students are encouraged to move beyond rote learning and explore creativity, innovation, and leadership. Education, he believed, should awaken curiosity and courage — qualities essential for shaping a just and progressive society.
This day serves as a reminder that every learner holds the potential to contribute meaningfully to the nation’s growth.
More than seven decades after independence, India continues to pursue Maulana Azad’s dream of universal education. While the nation has achieved remarkable growth in literacy and higher learning, challenges like digital divides, infrastructure gaps, and inequality persist.
National Education Day is not just about looking back; it’s about moving forward with renewed purpose — ensuring that every child, everywhere, gets the education they deserve.
It symbolizes India’s collective commitment to knowledge, equality, and empowerment — the very ideals Azad devoted his life to.
Maulana Abul Kalam Azad was more than an education minister — he was a reformer who believed that education is the foundation of freedom and progress. His ideas built the intellectual framework of independent India, and his legacy continues to inspire generations.
As we celebrate National Education Day 2025, let’s honor his dream by pledging to promote education that enlightens minds, builds character, and unites humanity.
In the truest sense, education is not only about learning facts — it’s about transforming lives.