The International Day of Education on 24 January marks a global call to ensure quality, inclusive learning for all. It also offers a powerful opportunity to spotlight an often-overlooked truth: psychosocial well-being is essential for students with diabetes to truly thrive.
To mark the day, the International Diabetes Federation (IDF) is hosting an online Blue Circle Talk on 23 January to discuss the psychosocial impact of diabetes in schools and share personal stories, expert insights, best practices, and policy and advocacy priorities.
According to the latest IDF estimates, each year an estimated 164,000 children under 15 are newly diagnosed with type 1 diabetes globally, with the number rising to approximately 222,000 new cases when including adolescents up to 19 years old. Currently, 1.8 million children and adolescents under the age of 20 are living with type 1 diabetes worldwide.
Despite the growing number of young people affected, their psychosocial challenges, including stigma, anxiety, and social isolation, often remain unaddressed in school environments. At the same time, families and educators often feel unprepared, facing stress and uncertainty due to a limited understanding of diabetes and inconsistent access to the guidance and resources they rely on.
Since its inception, the Kids and Diabetes in Schools (KiDS) programme has demonstrated its transformative powers when school communities are equipped with the right knowledge, practical guidance and an inclusive framework that champions safety and belonging for every learner.
This online event will bring together the evidence, real-world insights, and advocate experiences to explore how schools can create environments that reduce stigma, support psychosocial well-being and empower young people with diabetes to participate confidently in both academic and social life.
