Education crisis: Record attacks on schools and military use reported

Global education is facing a record crisis as attacks on schools and the military use of educational facilities reach unprecedented levels. According to reports from Education Cannot Wait and the Education Under Attack report, 258 million children across 87 countries are experiencing severe learning disruptions due to insecurity and conflict.

Data from 2024 and 2025 indicates a significant surge in violence, with at least 8,566 to 9,259 attacks on education recorded. This represents an increase of more than 40 to 50 per cent compared to the 2022-2023 period. The impact on individuals is severe, with over 10,600 students, teachers, and other education personnel reported killed, injured, or abducted.

Experts warn that the consequences extend beyond physical damage to school buildings. Dr. Maleiha Malik of the Education Above All Foundation noted that such disruptions can fuel long-term poverty and cycles of violence. While technology and accelerated learning programs may help bridge some gaps, officials emphasize that the damage caused by conflict to entire education systems is difficult to fully compensate.