UN Calls for Protecting Education Systems — Both In Person and Online
Muhammad Irfan
Published September 10, 2026 | 05:00 AM
NEW YORK, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 10th Sep, 2026)
UN Secretary-General António Guterres called on all parties to conflict to:
- Stop and prevent attacks on schools and education institutions.
- Meet their obligations under international law.
- Hold perpetrators of these attacks accountable.
According to Guterres, countries need to:
- Invest in education for every child.
- Fully endorse and implement the Safe Schools Declaration.
- Support the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack.
He emphasized the need to:
- Prepare and protect education systems, both in person and online.
- Reintegrate children and youth associated with armed forces and groups back into schools and communities safely.
The United Nations, he added, offers tools to support countries through UNESCO’s guidance and policy support.
"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."**
In the past two years, over 8,500 attacks worldwide have targeted schools, students, and teachers, causing deadly violence, abductions, and trauma.
Guterres affirmed that all States have an obligation to ensure the right to education for every child and the safety of schools and learning places.
He concluded by appealing:
- "Together, let’s keep children safe as they learn and build the peaceful futures they deserve."
The International Day to Protect Education from Attack is observed annually on September 9 to raise global awareness about the need to safeguard schools, students, and teachers during armed conflict.