International Day to Protect Education From Attack is observed every year on September 9. The day aims to protect children and their education. Did you know that between 2015 and 2019, 93 countries experienced at least one reported attack on education? Yes, around the world, attacks on children and their education affect the future of the entire generation of children. The United Nations’ International Day to Protect Education From Attack aims to raise awareness to preserve education and protect it from attacks. To observe this day, we are facilitating students in pursuit of further education through Scholaroo — a platform with scholarships information from around the world.
History of International Day to Protect Education from Attack
Attacks on schools, students, and teachers can have a serious and lasting impact on a child’s access to education and societal development. In recent years, these unfortunate incidents have increased across the world especially in the U.S. and in war-prone countries like Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Chad, Africa’s Sahel region, Syria, Yemen, and many other countries.
To counter this and secure the future of children, the U.N. General Assembly created International Day to Protect Education From Attack. This day was established in 2020 and is supported by UNESCO and UNICEF, and co-sponsored by 62 countries. This day aims to raise awareness of the plight of millions of children living in war-affected countries.
International Day to Protect Education From Attack aims to safeguard and shape the future of more than 75 million children in the age group of three to 18-year-olds living in 35 countries. This day sends a clear message regarding the importance of safeguarding schools and the safety of students, as well as educators and giving the children constant access to education.
Attacks on education are not just violations of International Humanitarian Law; these are also potentially ruining the future of these children. With attacks on education leading to long-term suspension of learning and teaching, this also increases the risk of school dropouts.
So, let us pledge and commit to promoting and protecting the right of every child to grow in a safe environment, have access to quality education, and shape a better future for them.
International Day to Protect Education from Attack timeline
A schoolmaster strangles a boy to death in Alabama, United States.
An attack at Ohio State University leaves 12 people injured.
The first International Day to Protect Education From Attack is observed by the U.N.
The Covid-19 pandemic hampers the global education system with the shut-down of schools and colleges.
International Day to Protect Education from Attack FAQs
Why is access to education important?
Societies with high rates of education completion have lower crime, better overall health, and civic involvement. This is why it is crucial to have access to education.
Does everyone have equal access to education?
No, not everyone in the world has equal access to education. International Day to Protect Education From Attack is a movement that makes equal access to education one step closer to reality.
How does conflict affect education?
Conflict prevents the opening of schools and increases teacher absenteeism. Conflict threatens children’s security while traveling to school and attending class.
How to Observe International Day to Protect Education from Attack
Educate a child
The greatest joy you can gain on International Day to Protect Education From Attack is from educating a child. You can help underprivileged children to complete their studies.
Donate
You can donate money to various organizations across the world that support child education and help children study. Do some research and find out which organizations you can donate to.
Raise awareness
You can raise awareness about the importance of education and the serious issue of attacks on education around the world. Share this information on your social media platforms.
5 Shocking Facts About Attacks On Education
More than 22,000
According to the U.N., more than 22,000 students, teachers, and academics were injured, killed, or harmed during attacks on education.
Direct attacks on students
Afghanistan, Cameron, and Palestine are some of the countries where the most direct attacks on students occur.
Schools for glorious purposes
Armed groups used schools and other universities for military purposes in 34 countries between 2015 and 2019.
104 states
To date, the Safe School Declaration, an inter-governmental commitment led by Norway and Argentina to protect education at all levels, is endorsed by only 113 states.
School shootings in 2019
In 2019, there were 417 mass shootings in the U.S.
Why International Day to Protect Education from Attack is Important
It is a much-needed day
International Day to Protect Education From Attack is a much-needed day that aims to protect the education of children, thus securing their future. It is our duty to observe this day and raise awareness.
Education is crucial
Whether you are in an underdeveloped country, developing country, or developed country, education is crucial for everybody in this world. It helps individuals to secure a job and have a better future.
We must stop terrorism
Most of the attacks on education are terrorism-related attacks. International Day to Protect Education From Attack is not only potentially empowering education but also taking a stand against terrorism.
International Day to Protect Education from Attack dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | September 9 | Monday |
| 2025 | September 9 | Tuesday |
| 2026 | September 9 | Wednesday |
| 2027 | September 9 | Thursday |
| 2028 | September 9 | Saturday |
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