Attacks on students, teachers and educational institutions took place in at least 32 countries between 2007 and 2009, with dramatic escalations in Afghanistan, Pakistan, India and Thailand, according to a report last Friday by the UN Education, Science and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
UNESCOs report “Education Under Attack 2010” said the motives for attacks varied widely, from preventing the education of girls or know-ledge of an alien culture, philosophy or ethnic identity to undermining government power and taking revenge for civilian killings.
Preventing future attacks hinges on understanding their motives, the report stressed.
The study called for involving communities in the running and defense of schools and for renegotiating the re-opening of schools, based on research and a successful program in Afghanistan.
The report also recommended protective measures such as providing armed groups at schools or for aiding in transportation to or from school and providing distance learning if schools were deemed unsafe.
Kilde: www.worldbank.org
