During the 5^th Observance of the United Nations International Day to Protect Education from Attack, held in Doha, Qatar, Sierra Leone’s First Lady, Dr. Fatima Maada Bio, made a compelling call for a collaborative approach to safeguard education from the devastating impacts of armed conflict. This event serves as a critical platform for raising awareness about the alarming consequences that violence and warfare inflict on educational systems worldwide.

Reflecting on her own country’s tumultuous history, particularly the 11-year civil war that ravaged Sierra Leone from 1991 to 2002, she articulated the profound effects that such conflicts have on educational infrastructure. The rebel war not only destroyed schools but also disrupted the lives of countless children and educators, leaving a lasting scar on a nation once celebrated as the “Athens of West Africa.” The First Lady emphasized that education is not merely an academic pursuit; it is a fundamental human right and a cornerstone for sustainable development.

In her address, she highlighted the need for global collaboration in addressing this pressing issue. She specifically called upon men often viewed as perpetrators of violence to break their silence and join efforts to protect education. Her message was clear, everyone has a role to play in advocating for peace and ensuring that children can learn in safe environments. “𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐬𝐞𝐞 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠, 𝐬𝐚𝐲 𝐬𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠,”

She urged, reinforcing the idea that vigilance and proactive measures are essential in combating threats to education.

Her Excellency’s remarks resonate with broader international concerns regarding the intersection of armed conflict and education. According to various studies, armed conflicts disproportionately affect educational access and quality, leading to long-term socio-economic repercussions. Therefore, her call for action is not only timely but necessary in fostering a collective response to this global crisis.

As nations grapple with ongoing conflicts and their implications for future generations, it becomes increasingly vital to prioritize educational protection initiatives. The First Lady’s appeal serves as a reminder that safeguarding education requires concerted efforts from all sectors of society, governments, NGOs, communities, and individuals alike.