National education day is observed every year on 11 November

National Education Day is celebrated every year on November 11 as it marks the birth anniversary of Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, who was India's first education minister after independence.

About Maulana Abul Kalam Azad:

Born on November 18, 1888, Abul Kalam Ghulam Muhiyuddin Ahmed bin Khairuddin Al-Hussaini Azad was an Indian independence activist,  writer, and senior leader of the Indian National Congress. After the nation gained independence, he became the first Minister of Education in the Indian government. He served as the education minister from August 15, 1947, till February 2, 1958, and passed away in Delhi on February 22, 1958.

History:

The Ministry of Human Resource Development announced on 11 September 2008, "The Ministry has decided to commemorate the birthday of this great son of India by recalling his contribution to the cause of education in India. November 11 every year, from 2008 onwards, is celebrated as the National Education Day, with declaring it as a holiday." All educational institutions in the country mark the day with seminars, symposia, essay-writing, elocution competitions, workshops and rallies with banner cards and slogans on the importance of literacy and the nation's commitment to all aspects of education.

Theme:

Changing Course, Transforming Education