{"id":22828,"date":"2026-01-24T17:47:05","date_gmt":"2026-01-24T15:47:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.kapa3.gr\/?p=22828"},"modified":"2026-01-24T17:46:40","modified_gmt":"2026-01-24T15:46:40","slug":"january-24-international-day-of-education","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.kapa3.gr\/en\/january-24-international-day-of-education\/","title":{"rendered":"January 24 \u2013 International Day of Education"},"content":{"rendered":"

January 24<\/strong> has been designated by the United Nations as the International Day of Education, recognizing education as a fundamental human right and a key pillar of social cohesion, equality, and sustainable development. Access to knowledge is not only a means of professional growth but also a decisive factor in psychological resilience, personal identity, and hope for the future.<\/p>\n

EDUCATION AND ILLNESS: WHEN LEARNING BECOMES SUPPORT<\/strong><\/h6>\n

For children living with cancer or other serious illnesses, education takes on a special significance. International initiatives, such as hospital schools, have highlighted the role of learning in maintaining continuity of life during treatment. According to the World Health Organization, education for hospitalized children is not just about curriculum but also serves as a source of joy, normalcy, and psychological empowerment. Participation in lessons, interaction with teachers, and pursuing personal interests help children retain goals and envision their future, even under the strain of serious illness.<\/p>\n

YOUNG ADULTS WITH CANCER: STUDIES, INTERRUPTIONS, AND RETURNS<\/strong><\/h6>\n

Education<\/strong> is also a critical issue for young adults living with cancer, an age group often engaged in higher education, vocational training, or early career stages. International research shows that a cancer diagnosis during this period can lead to study interruptions, delayed completion, shifts in educational direction, and increased psychological burden. Studies from Europe and the United States report higher levels of anxiety, social isolation, and uncertainty about the future, while also highlighting that flexible educational structures and supportive policies significantly increase the likelihood of returning to and completing studies.<\/p>\n

Yet there are also those who, through their experience with illness, redefine their priorities: pursuing new fields of knowledge, changing direction, or discovering previously untapped skills.<\/p>\n

DATA IN GREECE<\/strong><\/h6>\n

In Greece<\/strong>, there are no official data tracking continuation or interruption of studies for young adults living with cancer \u2014 such as how many students drop out, how many return after treatment, or the overall impact on their educational trajectory. However, it is estimated that the incidence of cancer in young adults is approximately 7.4 new cases per 100,000 inhabitants per year, highlighting the unique psychosocial and developmental challenges this group faces. The lack of systematic data on educational outcomes underscores the need for further research and for policies that support young people in continuing or completing their studies when and how they wish.<\/p>\n

Education<\/strong> at any age can serve as a tool for hope and life reorientation. Many individuals who have experienced cancer choose to return to learning, acquire new skills, change career paths, or invest in postponed dreams. Knowledge does not erase the challenges of illness, but it can provide meaning, perspective, and a sense of control during uncertain times.<\/p>\n

At KAPA3<\/strong>, we recognize the importance of education as an integral part of psychosocial support. Through our participation in European projects, such as MELODIC<\/a>, which focuses on the mental health of young adults with cancer, we highlight the need for holistic approaches that consider life, studies, and personal plans beyond the diagnosis.<\/p>\n

The International Day of Education<\/strong> serves as a reminder that knowledge does not stop in the face of illness. With support, understanding, and appropriate structures, education can remain alive \u2014 acting as a bridge to the future and a reminder that life continues.<\/p>\n

Sources:<\/strong><\/p>\n