April 3, 2015 – Yesterday’s attack on the Garissa University College in Kenya leading to reported killings of more than 147 students, teachers and university staff is yet another shocking reminder of how education has become a target of violent attacks by extremist groups.

Schools must be safe places for young people, teachers and other staff to work and learn without fear of being attacked.  

According to the United Nations, there have been thousands of attacks on schools in at least 70 different countries between 2009 and 2014. These cowardly and senseless attacks are unacceptable and the perpetrators must be brought to justice.

Our hearts and thoughts are with the victims and their families during this terrible atrocity. We are today remembering the people and government of Kenya, which I visited just weeks ago to see for myself how this beautiful and proud country is expanding access to a quality basic education for its children.  

The Global Partnership for Education works closely with the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack and urges all parties in armed conflicts to act in accordance with and help enable the Guidelines for Protecting Schools and Universities from Military Use during Armed Conflict.