UNICEF condemns attacks on schools in Afghanistan
"We are concerned about the rising number of attacks on schools, teachers and students that are being targeted. The violence has to stop," said UNICEF Representative in Afghanistan Catherine Mbengue.
So far this year, there have been 256 violent school incidents, resulting in some 58 deaths and 46 injuries. In 2007, arsonists were to blame for a total of 236 school incidents.
A safe space for children
Communities in war-torn Afghanistan have been working to overcome violence and other obstacles that can hinder children, especially girls, from attending school.
Despite the often difficult environment, student enrolment in the country has continued to rise. Over 6 million Afghan children now attend school, in comparison to 3 million in 2002.
UNICEF maintains that schools should provide a safe space for children and that the targeting of schools, innocent teachers and school children must cease.