On this significant day, the Somali Women and Child Care Association (SWCCA) extends its heartfelt solidarity and support to individuals, communities, and organizations committed to protecting education from attack worldwide.

Education is the foundation upon which prosperous societies are built, and every child, regardless of their background, deserves the right to access quality education in a safe environment. Unfortunately, armed conflicts, violence, and insecurity continue to threaten the futures of countless children around the globe.

In Somalia, we have witnessed the devastating impact of attacks on education firsthand. Schools have been targeted, teachers intimidated, and students robbed of their fundamental right to learn. We firmly condemn such acts as they not only hinder the educational journey of children but also perpetuate a cycle of violence and instability.

SWCCA has been working tirelessly to safeguard education from attack in Somalia. We believe that empowering women, who play an integral role in building peaceful communities, is vital in ensuring safer educational environments for our children. Our organization actively advocates for the protection of schools, promotes girls’ education, and empowers women to become changemakers in their communities.

Today, as we stand united with the international community in protecting education from attack, we call upon governments, non-state actors, and individuals to take immediate action. We urge all to:

1. Respect and abide by international humanitarian and human rights laws, which prohibit the targeting of schools, teachers, and students during armed conflicts.

2. Invest in alternative methods of education, such as mobile classrooms, radio programs, and distance learning platforms, to ensure children can continue their education even in the midst of conflict.

3. Prioritize the recruitment and training of female teachers, as they can serve as strong role models for girls, encouraging their participation and creating safer learning spaces.

4. Promote comprehensive psychosocial support for students and teachers affected by violence, enabling them to heal, recover, and reintegrate into the education system.

5. Strengthen international cooperation and support organizations working on the ground to protect education from attack. By sharing knowledge, resources, and best practices, we can collectively counter the forces that threaten the future of education.

Let us remember that education is not only the key to individual empowerment but also holds the power to transform societies and build lasting peace. Together, we can and must protect education from attack, ensuring that every child’s right to learn and thrive is upheld.

May peace, resilience, and the pursuit of knowledge prevail worldwide.