International Museum Day

Each year since 1977, International Council of Museums (ICOM) has organised International Museum Day on May 18.

International Museum Day was officially established with the adoption of a resolution during the ICOM General Assembly in Moscow, Russia to create an annual event “with the aim of further unifying the creative aspirations and efforts of museums and drawing the attention of the world public to their activity".

Objective

The objective of International Museum Day (IMD) is to raise awareness about the fact that, “Museums are an important means of cultural exchange, enrichment of cultures and development of mutual understanding, cooperation and peace among peoples.” 

International Museum Day 2024 “Museums for Education and Research”

This year’s theme, “Museums for Education and Research,” underscores the pivotal role of cultural institutions in providing a holistic educational experience. This day pushes for a more conscious, sustainable and inclusive world.

Museums serve as dynamic educational hubs, fostering curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. In 2024, we acknowledge their contribution to research, providing a platform for exploration and the dissemination of new ideas. From art and history to science and technology, museums are vital spaces where education and research converge to shape our understanding of the world.

Each year, the International Museum Day supports a set of Goals from the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. In 2024, we will focus on:

• Goal 4: Quality Education – Ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all
• Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure – Build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation.

Source : International Council of Museums

Celebrations in India

The Ministry of Culture steers the celebration across its museums in the country.

The National Museum (New Delhi), National Gallery of Modern Art (New Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru), Allahabad Museum (Prayagraj), Indian Museum (Kolkata), Victoria Memorial Hall (Kolkata), Salar Jung Museum (Hyderabad) and Science cities and centers under National Council of Science Museums (in 24 locations across India) undertake special initiatives to commemmorate the day.

Source : Ministry of Culture