The United Nations (UN)’s International Day to Protect Education from Attack is observed annually on September 9. This day highlights the critical need to protect education systems from the devastating effects of armed conflict and violence. It serves as a platform to raise awareness about the importance of safeguarding schools, students, educators, and education institutions worldwide.
Importance of September 9, 2024
- September 9, 2024 marks the 5th International Day to Protect Education from Attack.
- This day is dedicated to raising global awareness about the ongoing attacks on educational institutions and ensuring education remains a symbol of hope and peace in conflict zones.
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Significance of International Day to Protect Education from Attack
1. Raising Awareness of the Plight of Children
- The September 9 observance is a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by millions of children affected by conflicts.
- This day encourages global action to protect schools, which should remain safe spaces for children to learn and grow.
2. Keeping Education on the Public Agenda
- September 9 puts a spotlight on the need to keep education high on the public agenda, especially in conflict-affected regions.
- Schools must remain places of protection and safety, ensuring that education continues even during times of conflict.
Historical Background
- On May 28, 2020, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a resolution (A/RES/74/275) that officially designated September 9 as the International Day to Protect Education from Attack.
- The resolution was presented by Qatar and co-sponsored by 62 nations. UNESCO and UNICEF act as co-facilitators of the annual observance.
The First Observance:
- The first-ever International Day to Protect Education from Attack was held on September 9, 2020.
Global Situation of Children in Armed Conflicts (2023)
1. UN Report on Children and Armed Conflict
- According to the 2023 UN Secretary-General’s Annual Report on Children and Armed Conflict, there were 32,990 grave violations affecting 22,557 children.
- A 21% increase in violations against children was reported in 2023, including abductions, recruitment, and attacks on schools.
2. Impacted Regions:
- Some of the most heavily affected areas include Gaza, Congo, Myanmar, Sudan, Syria, Ukraine, and Palestine.
Attacks on Education: 2022–2023 Insights
1. Alarming Statistics from the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack (GCPEA)
- In 2022 and 2023, around 6,000 reported attacks were recorded against students, educators, and schools worldwide.
- The numbers show a 20% increase in attacks compared to the previous two years.
2. Affected Regions and Consequences:
- High numbers of attacks were reported in Palestine, Ukraine, Congo, Myanmar, while the most significant harm was recorded in India, Pakistan, Palestine, and Afghanistan.
Safe Schools Declaration (SSD)
- Launched in 2015 by Norway and Argentina, the Safe Schools Declaration is a political agreement that aims to protect education during armed conflicts.
- It outlines commitments to restrict military use of schools and to safeguard educational institutions.
- To date, 120 states have endorsed the SSD, showing the global community’s dedication to protecting education.
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Event Highlight: 9 September 2024 Observance in Doha, Qatar
- The 5th International Day to Protect Education from Attack was observed on September 9, 2024, in Doha, Qatar.
- The event was organized by Education Above All (EAA) under the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, Chairperson of EAA, and advocate for UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
- Virginia Gamba, Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, and UNESCO were key participants in the event.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
The observance of the International Day to Protect Education from Attack on September 9 is a vital reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by children and educators in conflict zones. By raising awareness and advocating for stronger protections, this day urges the global community to come together and ensure that education is shielded from the devastating impacts of war. Safeguarding schools as zones of peace must be a top priority.
FAQs
What is the theme of the International Day to Protect Education from Attack?
The theme of the 2024 International Day to Protect Education from Attack is “Protecting Education in Conflict: Strengthening Action for Safe Learning Environments.”
Which country raised the proposal to proclaim the International Day to Protect Education from Attack?
Qatar introduced the resolution to proclaim the International Day to Protect Education from Attack, which was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly.
Which among the following day is declared by the United Nations as International Day to Protect Education from Attack?
The United Nations declared September 9 as the International Day to Protect Education from Attack.
Why do we celebrate International Day of Education?
The International Day of Education is celebrated to recognize the importance of education for peace and development, ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education for all.
Who started International Education Day?
The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed January 24 as the International Day of Education in 2018, based on a resolution initiated by Nigeria and supported by various countries.
Which year was declared by the UN as the International Education Year, and why?
1970 was declared as the International Education Year by the UN to focus on global educational challenges and promote education for development.
Who is the father of National Education Day?
Maulana Abul Kalam Azad, the first Minister of Education in independent India, is regarded as the father of National Education Day, which is observed on November 11 each year in his honor.
What is the theme of International Day of Education 2024?
The theme for International Day of Education 2024 is “Education in Crisis: Transforming Learning for a Sustainable Future.”
What is the theme of the International Day in 2024?
Various international days have different themes, but for International Day to Protect Education from Attack in 2024, the theme is “Protecting Education in Conflict: Strengthening Action for Safe Learning Environments.”
What international day is September 9th?
September 9th is observed as the International Day to Protect Education from Attack.
Which day is celebrated as UN Day?
October 24th is celebrated as UN Day, marking the anniversary of the entry into force of the UN Charter in 1945.