The International Day of Education, observed annually on January 24, is a global platform to celebrate the transformative power of education in building sustainable societies. In 2025, UNESCO has chosen the theme: “Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Education: Preserving Human Agency in a World of Automation.” This theme highlights the pivotal role of education in safeguarding human autonomy as AI continues to revolutionize industries, economies, and societies.
As UNESCO underscores, AI poses critical challenges to education systems worldwide, particularly in preserving the human essence of learning and teaching. Education, the cornerstone of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), is not just a tool for personal growth but also a driving force for equality, innovation, and prosperity.
Zimbabwe, a nation celebrated for its once-thriving education system, finds itself at a crossroads. UNESCO statistics reveal alarming declines in educational proficiency across Sub-Saharan Africa, including Zimbabwe. For example, the proportion of learners achieving minimum levels of reading and mathematics proficiency at the primary level has fallen to 30% and 11%, respectively. These figures highlight an urgent need to reimagine education in line with SDG 4, which advocates for inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
Local teachers echo these concerns. In rural areas, where the majority of Zimbabweans live, barriers to quality education are stark. One rural teacher laments, “In the rural areas, a lack of teaching resources is a hindrance to learning. The partisan politics that comes into the classroom also hinders effective teaching.”
Moreover, outdated textbooks, a lack of electricity, and limited technological infrastructure exacerbate the crisis. “My school has outdated textbooks that cannot cater for the changes in the curriculum. There is no electricity, which limits what can be taught regarding technology. Internet access is non-existent, and even cellular network communication is problematic,” shares another teacher.
Zimbabwe’s education system faces a host of challenges, from funding gaps and teacher shortages to infrastructure inadequacies. The economic hardships affecting teachers further compound these issues. One teacher’s poignant observation reflects this reality: “The ever-decreasing value of the earned salary also affects the quality of work produced. I cannot perform at 100% because everyday concerns, such as my children’s fees, welfare, and medication, take away my attention to service.”
Yet, amid these challenges, there are glimmers of hope. Programs aimed at integrating technology into education and fostering community involvement are beginning to take root. Zimbabwe’s participation in global initiatives such as the International Day of Education provides an opportunity to align local efforts with UNESCO’s goals, ensuring that education evolves to meet 21st-century demands while maintaining its human essence.
As the International Day of Education 2025 reminds us, education is not merely a right; it is the foundation of every sustainable society. For Zimbabwe, this means addressing systemic challenges and investing in innovative solutions that prioritize both access and quality. Policymakers, educators, parents, and students must unite to advocate for an education system that works for everyone.
UNESCO encourages stakeholders to reimagine education in the AI age by focusing on preserving human agency. Zimbabwe can take this message to heart by enhancing teacher support, investing in infrastructure, and ensuring equitable access to resources. The path to a brighter future starts with collective action, and the time to act is now.
As we mark this year’s International Day of Education, let us reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that every child, teacher, and community has the tools they need to thrive in an ever-changing world. The challenges are vast, but the potential for transformation is even greater.