Pakistan calls for urgent action to protect education, children in Sudan

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has called for urgent international action to protect education and children in conflict-hit Sudan, saying access to learning is vital to the country’s recovery, stability and lasting peace, according to a statement issued by Pakistan’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations.

Speaking at an Arria-Formula meeting of the UN Security Council on “Safeguarding Education in Sudan: Investing in Peace, Recovery and Stability,” Pakistan’s First Secretary Syed Ansar Shah said more than 17 million Sudanese children had faced severe disruption to their education since the conflict erupted in April 2023.

He stated that about 8 million children were currently out of school.

Ansar Shah condemned attacks on schools, students, teachers and educational personnel. He said schools must not be targeted or used in ways that put children at risk.

He also pointed to obligations under international humanitarian law and relevant UN Security Council resolutions to protect educational facilities and ensure children’s right to education, including during emergencies.

The Pakistani delegate outlined three priorities: protecting schools and ensuring safe access to education and humanitarian assistance, providing emergency learning opportunities, rehabilitating schools and supporting teachers for displaced and refugee children, and preserving Sudan’s national education system, including examinations, certification and recognition of qualifications.

He said children deprived of education today would be the doctors, teachers, engineers, civil servants and community leaders needed to rebuild Sudan tomorrow.

Ansar Shah said the immediate priority must be an end to the conflict. He said Pakistan supports Sudan’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity.

He also rejected efforts to establish parallel governing structures, saying such moves could fragment Sudan and undermine the future of its youth.

The secretary stated that Pakistan called on all Sudanese stakeholders to pursue a diplomatic solution in the interest of peace, stability and the Sudanese people.