Attacks on education are on the rise worldwide, leaving millions of children out of school. The Education Above All Foundation calls for urgent action to protect this fundamental human right.
Education is under siege in conflict-affected regions. The EAA Foundation highlights the devastating impact of attacks on education and the need for global solidarity. Image Courtesy: EAAAr-Rayyan, Qatar - September 10, 2024:
The Education Above All (EAA) Foundation, a global leader in education and development, hosted the fifth annual International Day to Protect Education from Attack (IDPEA) on September 9th, 2024. The event, held in Qatar, brought together heads of state, high-level dignitaries, and UN representatives to address the growing crisis of attacks on education worldwide.
Led by Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of EAA Foundation, the event highlighted the devastating consequences of attacks on education, particularly in conflict-affected regions. In her keynote address, Sheikha Moza emphasized the importance of education as a fundamental right and the urgent need for global action to protect it.
The 2024 report by the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack revealed a disturbing trend of increasing attacks on education. Over 10,000 students and educators were killed, injured, abducted, or harmed in such attacks in 2022 and 2023 alone, with explosive weapons being used in one-third of these incidents. Countries like Palestine, Sudan, Ukraine, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, and Myanmar were particularly hard hit.
These attacks have a devastating impact on individuals and societies. Millions of children are forced out of school due to conflict, with girls being disproportionately affected. Disruptions to education lead to severe short- and long-term consequences, including increased poverty, malnutrition, and child marriage.
The EAA Foundation's work is essential for defending against and preventing attacks on education. The Foundation has supported over seven million out-of-school children in 25 countries, implementing programs that address educational barriers such as poverty, gender discrimination, disabilities, and climate change.
The International Day to Protect Education from Attack serves as a critical platform to raise awareness about the challenges faced by education in conflict zones and to advocate for action. The EAA Foundation's leadership and commitment to protecting education are crucial in driving global change.
As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of conflict and inequality, the protection of education must remain a top priority. The EAA Foundation's call to action resonates strongly, urging individuals and governments to stand up for the right of every child to an education.