National Education Day in Poland (14/10)

On October 14, Poland celebrates National Education Day (Dzień Edukacji Narodowej). Earlier on this day, the country celebrated Teacher's Day (Dzień Nauczyciela), which is why today it is considered a professional holiday for all teachers, teachers and mentors.

The date was chosen in connection with the anniversary of the creation of the Commission of National Education, which was created on October 14, 1773 on the initiative of King Stanisław II August Poniatowski (1732—1798) and the Sejm.

The Commission had broad rights, powers and was autonomous, leading it to be considered the first Ministry of Education in Polish history. In addition, the creation of the Commission was an important achievement of Polish enlightenment.

The main reason for the creation of the National Education Commission was that education in Poland and Lithuania was almost completely controlled by the Jesuits — Catholic Religious Order, the Society of Jesus. Although Jesuit schools taught at a fairly high level and Polish youth received a good education, these schools adhered to very conservative rules.

In addition, in 1773, Pope Clement XIV decided to liquidate the Jesuit Order, which led to the complete failure of education in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth.

For most teachers and students in Poland this is a day off. Only some schools organize classes, meetings or parties. Students congratulate their teachers on the holiday and give them flowers.

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