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By Funke Babs-Kufeji

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that more than 8,500 attacks have targeted schools, students and teachers worldwide over the past two years, calling for urgent action to protect education from conflict and violence.

Guterres issued the warning in a message marking the International Day to Protect Education from Attack, observed on September 9.

He described education as both a fundamental human right and a passport to a better future, but cautioned that accessing it is becoming increasingly dangerous for millions of children and young people caught in conflict zones.

“Education is a passport to a better future for every child and young person. It is also a fundamental human right. But exercising that right is becoming increasingly dangerous,” he said.

According to the UN chief, the attacks recorded over the past two years have unleashed deadly violence, abductions and deep psychological trauma, turning places meant for learning and safety into scenes of fear.

He stressed that all States have a responsibility to guarantee every child’s right to education while ensuring that schools and other places of learning remain safe.

“All parties to conflict must stop and prevent attacks on schools and other education institutions, meet their obligations under international law and hold perpetrators accountable,” Guterres said.

He also urged countries to invest in education, fully endorse and implement the Safe Schools Declaration, and support the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack.

Beyond physical security, he called for education systems to be better prepared to withstand attacks and disruption, both in classrooms and online, with particular attention given to girls and children living in vulnerable circumstances.

“We must work together to prepare and protect education systems, both in person and online, particularly for girls and children in vulnerable situations,” he said.

Guterres further highlighted the need to safely reintegrate children and young people associated with armed forces and groups into schools and their communities, noting that education can play a critical role in helping them rebuild their lives.

The United Nations, he said, provides countries with a range of tools to strengthen these efforts, including practical guidance and policy support from the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).

“Together, let’s keep children safe as they learn and build the peaceful futures they deserve,” the Secretary-General said.