The Commission of National Education was created in response to the growing need for educational reform in the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth during the 18th century. This period witnessed significant political and social upheaval, including challenges from neighboring powers and internal strife. The formation of the commission represented a pivotal step in establishing a centralized authority responsible for education, aiming to combat the previously uncoordinated and largely clerical educational landscape. Headed by prominent figures such as Hugo Kołłątaj and other members of the Enlightenment, the commission sought to promote public education by creating a unified curriculum and reforming higher education institutions.

At its core, the commission's mission was to increase literacy and moral education among the populace, emphasizing the values of civic responsibility and social consciousness. It played an instrumental role in founding teachers' colleges and reforming schools, ensuring that educational resources were effectively utilized and equitably distributed across the Commonwealth. This initiative not only addressed immediate educational needs but also aimed to influence the broader cultural and political spheres by fostering a well-informed citizenry capable of participating in governance and decision-making processes.

The Commission of National Education reflected Enlightenment principles, particularly the belief that education can be a powerful tool for societal improvement. Efforts made by the commission included the establishment of national schools, improved teacher training, and mechanisms for quality control in education, which laid groundwork for more modern educational practices in Poland. Its legacy has persisted through various reforms in Polish education in subsequent generations, demonstrating the long-lasting impact of these early efforts towards educational policy and governance.