On September 9, observed as the International Day to Protect Education from Attack, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres urged countries worldwide to invest in education and ensure the protection of students and teachers.
This call comes amid ongoing attacks on educational institutions in Afghanistan, where schools and universities have been repeatedly targeted by violent extremists, resulting in the deaths of dozens of students.
Fatima, one of the survivors of a poisoning attack at Habib al-Mustafa School in Herat, recalled the difficult days following the incident and stressed the importance of prioritizing student safety. “Security for students is more important than anything else and should be the top priority,” she said.
The attack, which occurred in 2015, left 124 students, including Fatima, poisoned by toxic gas. Now, years later, Fatima faces another challenge—her school has been closed since the Taliban returned to power.
“I was in fifth grade when the poisoning happened. About 100 of us were affected and taken to the hospital. After recovering, I continued my studies despite being afraid. I finished 12th grade, but for the last three years, schools have been closed,” Fatima said. “I still hope that one day the schools and universities will reopen so we can study in peace.”
Over the past two decades, educational institutions in Afghanistan have been frequent targets of terrorist attacks, leaving hundreds of students dead or injured. According to official statistics, more than 20 attacks have been carried out on schools and universities in the past decade alone, resulting in over 400 student deaths.
Notable attacks include those on Kabul University, the American University of Afghanistan, Sayed-ul-Shuhada School, Kawsar Educational Center, Mawood Educational Center, and Kaj Educational Center, among others.
Notable Attacks on Educational Institutions:
Sayed-ul-Shuhada School, Kabul: 100 killed, 240 injured
Tabyan Educational Center: 52 killed, 140 injured
Kabul University: 35 killed, 50 injured
American University of Afghanistan: 13 killed, 50 injured
In light of these tragic events, Guterres marked the International Day to Protect Education by urging nations to support the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack. He called for accountability for those responsible for targeting schools and other learning centers.
Some Afghan citizens expressed frustration over the continued targeting of educational institutions and urged the Taliban to provide equal opportunities for boys and girls to safely pursue their education.
Najiba, a resident of Herat, said, “For years, our youth have been victims in their pursuit of education. Now, either the education system has changed, or girls are banned from attending school and university. We call on the government to ensure a safe environment where everyone has the right to education.”
Many Afghans have noted that, even before the fall of the republic, schools and universities were under attack. Since the Taliban’s return to power, these attacks have not only persisted but have been compounded by the closure of schools and universities for girls.
