Doha, Qatar: The international community marks the International Day to Protect Education from Attack, observed annually on September 9, as a reminder and a call to action to ensure access to safe and inclusive education for all students. The occasion urges states to strengthen education systems capable of withstanding crises, particularly at a time when wars and conflicts continue to claim the lives of thousands of students, destroy schools and universities, and in some cases turn educational institutions into military sites or shelters.
The opening line of the Preamble to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) Constitution affirms that “since wars begin in the minds of people, it is in the minds of people that the defences of peace must be constructed.” This underscores the central role of education in building peace, stability, and development before, during, and after conflicts.
Education is a top national and international priority for Qatar under the leadership of Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani. The country has consistently emphasised the protection of education from attacks, reflecting its recognised role in mediation and dispute resolution through peaceful means.
In 2019, Qatar submitted a draft resolution to the 74th session of the UN General Assembly designating September 9 as the International Day to Protect Education from Attack. The resolution, adopted unanimously, calls on the international community to safeguard students affected by armed conflict and ensure the provision of quality education in safe environments.
The initiative drew strong international support and underscored the pioneering role of H H Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of the Education Above All Foundation (EAA) and member of the UN Sustainable Development Goals Advocates Group. Her advocacy has spotlighted the plight of millions of children deprived of education due to war, reinforcing Qatar’s commitment to sparing education the devastation of armed conflict.
Qatar is also among the leading supporters of the Safe Schools Declaration, launched in 2015, and has advanced numerous initiatives and partnerships to protect students and teachers in times of conflict.
The Education Above All Foundation continues to play a distinguished role in championing education worldwide, working to deliver quality learning opportunities to millions of out-of-school children, particularly those affected by poverty, war, and disasters. Its programmes have been implemented in dozens of countries in partnership with global stakeholders, providing education to millions in crisis-affected regions.
In remarks to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Director of the Al Fakhoora Program at EAA, Talal Alhathal, said that dedicating an international day to protect education from attack is the result of a Qatari initiative, stemming from the country’s firm belief that education is an inalienable right that cannot be compromised, even in times of war and crisis.
He added that, with the support of Qatar and international partners, EAA has carried out projects in dozens of conflict-affected countries, enabling millions of children to return to school and regain hope for a better future.
“The challenges remain formidable,” he said, “but our commitment is to ensure that education continues to serve as a lifeline for future generations and a message of peace that transcends borders.”
