United Nations, 07 August 2026(Kamran Raja): Pakistan has called for urgent international action to protect education in Sudan, stressing that safeguarding children’s access to learning is vital for the country’s recovery, stability and long-term peace.
Speaking at an Arria-Formula meeting of the United Nations Security Council on “Safeguarding Education in Sudan: Investing in Peace, Recovery and Stability,” First Secretary Syed Ansar Shah said more than 17 million Sudanese children had experienced severe disruption to their education since the conflict began in April 2023, with approximately 8 million children currently out of school.
Pakistan strongly condemned attacks on schools, students, teachers and educational personnel, emphasizing that schools must never be targeted or used for purposes that place children at risk.
Shah underscored the obligations of all parties under international humanitarian law and relevant UN Security Council resolutions to protect educational facilities and uphold children’s right to education, including during armed conflicts and humanitarian emergencies.
The Pakistani delegate outlined three key priorities for protecting education in Sudan.
First, he called for the protection of schools and the provision of safe access to education and humanitarian assistance. Second, he stressed the need to prioritize emergency learning, rehabilitation of damaged schools and support for teachers serving displaced and refugee children. Third, he emphasized the importance of preserving Sudan’s national education system, including examinations, certification and the recognition of academic qualifications.
“Children deprived of education today will be the doctors, teachers, engineers, civil servants and community leaders needed for Sudan’s recovery tomorrow,” Shah stressed.
He emphasized that the ultimate priority must remain bringing a swift end to the conflict, reiterating Pakistan’s firm support for Sudan’s sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity.
Pakistan also rejected efforts to establish parallel governing structures that could further fragment Sudan and jeopardize the future of its younger generation.
The Pakistani delegate called on all Sudanese stakeholders to pursue a diplomatic and peaceful solution to the conflict, stressing that the people of Sudan, particularly its children and youth, deserve peace, stability and an opportunity to rebuild their future.