Education Above All, the Qatar-based foundation that promotes human, social and economic development through quality education and other welfare programmes and initiatives, issued a statement in response to the attacks that took place today in Peshawar, Pakistan, and in Yemen. Officials say at least 132 children and nine school staff, have been killed in a Taliban attack on an army-run school in Pakistan, and 15 children in an attack on a school bus in Yemen.

Education Above All Foundation condemns the attacks that have taken place today in Peshawar and Yemen, during which innocent children and educators have been killed. Schools should not be part of any conflict, and must remain a safe place for children and teachers alike. Children have special protection under international law, and should never be made the victims of conflict. We will continue to advocate the fundamental right to education for all, and stand beside with those who oppose the denial of education.

Education Above All supports the Protect Education in Insecurity and Conflict (PEIC) programme, established in 2010.  PEIC is a founding member of the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack (GCPEA), to which it contributes technical and financial support. Through its own policy, research and advocacy activities and its engagement with GCPEA, PEIC is contributing to international efforts to promote safe schooling and the right to education in conflict-affected countries. PEIC is deeply concerned that no actions by any party  should compromise the security of education facilities in Pakistan, Yemen or elsewhere.