Among the fundamental rights of every human being, education is an important pillar, a public good and a public responsibility.
January 24th of each year has been declared as International Day of Education by the United Nations General Assembly. This day, which concerns us all, aims to celebrate the role of education in building a more just world, where peace and development are the basis of global well-being.
The world of judo is by definition and inherently tied to the concept of education. To understand this, it is sufficient to remember the words of Master Jigoro Kano, who wished for the arrival of a better nation by training the mind and body through sports.
Education is at the center of our focus at every level, from early childhood to high-level sports and even veterans. Numerous IJF programs, such as Judo for Children, Judo in Schools, Judo for Peace, and Gender Equality, promote the dissemination of Judo's moral codes and principles. Therefore, at every stage of the judo rocket, it is a matter of education. This is celebrated every day of the year and is highlighted on the occasion of International Education Day.
Lack of education, lack of quality, inclusion and equity, lack of respect for the opportunities available to all, has serious implications for global development. Achieving gender equality and breaking the chains of poverty that leave millions of children, young people and adults behind is therefore in the realm of utopia.
Observation is serious. In 2024, 250 million children and young people around the world will be without access to education. More than 763 million adults are illiterate. Thanks to judo, we always have the ability to fight the scourge of lack or lack of education.
Long live education through judo, long live education!
