KABUL, 10 May 2012 – UNICEF was shocked and deeply saddened to learn of the deliberate attack in Paktika province on Tuesday, on a convoy of fifteen staff members from the Department of Education of the Government of Afghanistan. According to reports, five people were killed and seven were injured.

UNICEF supports the Government of Afghanistan in running community based schools, accelerated learning classes and literacy programmes in Paktika province and across the country. The team was monitoring such programmes when they came under attack.

UNICEF condemns all attacks on individuals working for the children of Afghanistan and those who strive to improve education, protection and health services for children and their mothers. UNICEF calls on all parties to the conflict to ensure that students, teachers and those working in the education system and for the well-being of children are protected at all times.

About UNICEF
UNICEF works in 190 countries and territories to help children survive and thrive, from early childhood through adolescence. The world’s largest provider of vaccines for developing countries, UNICEF supports child health and nutrition, good water and sanitation, quality basic education for all boys and girls, and the protection of children from violence, exploitation, and AIDS. UNICEF is funded entirely by the voluntary contributions of individuals, businesses, foundations and governments.

For more information about UNICEF in Afghanistan visit: www.unicef.org/infobycountry/afghanistan.html

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For further information, please contact:

International media: Alistair Gretarsson, UNICEF Afghanistan, Tel: +93 798 507 110, agretarsson@unicef.org

Dari and Pashto: Abdul Aziz Froutan, UNICEF Afghanistan, Tel: +93 798 507 113, aafroutan@unicef.org