PM attends global conference celebrating International Day to Protect Education from Attack.

Doha Hosts Significant Global Event

On Monday, Dr. Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak, the Prime Minister of Yemen, took part in an international conference commemorating the fifth anniversary of the United Nations General Assembly’s declaration of September 9 as the International Day to Protect Education from Attacks. The event, held at the National Convention Center in Doha, Qatar, spotlighted the severe violations against the educational sector and children in conflict zones.

Organized by the Qatar Foundation ‘Education Above All,’ under the theme “Education at Risk: The Human Cost of War,” the conference attracted global leaders, senior United Nations officials, and civil society representatives from around the world.

Yemen’s Commitment to Peace and Education

In his address to the high-level international gathering, Prime Minister bin Mubarak expressed his pleasure in participating in the celebration. He emphasized the Yemeni government’s commitment to achieving peace, which is crucial for overcoming challenges that disproportionately affect vulnerable groups, especially women and children. He highlighted Qatar’s commendable efforts, in partnership with 62 countries, to designate September 9 as a global day for safeguarding education from attacks, a resolution unanimously adopted by the UN General Assembly.

The Prime Minister shared poignant insights into Yemen’s struggles, where the pursuit of knowledge faces threats from ignorance and conflict. Despite the challenges, Yemeni children, the “buds of hope,” have resiliently continued their education in damaged schools, under crumbling roofs and cracked walls that bear witness to their suffering.

A Tribute to Yemen’s Educators

Dr. bin Mubarak paid tribute to Yemeni teachers who, despite harsh conditions, ensure the continuation of the educational process, symbolizing the triumph of knowledge over ignorance. He recounted a memorable encounter with a teacher in Hadramout, who, despite low wages and challenging conditions, remained dedicated to his noble profession.

The Education Crisis in Yemen

The Prime Minister reviewed the extensive damage inflicted on Yemen’s educational sector by the conflict, which has led to the worst educational crisis in the country’s history. He noted that over 2860 schools have been damaged or repurposed, severely affecting the education of children, who make up 34% of the population. Many of these children live in remote areas, further limiting their access to education.

Government Initiatives and International Cooperation

Dr. bin Mubarak stressed the government’s priority to ensure safe and quality education for all school-aged children, in line with international agreements. Despite limited resources, the government has taken steps to resume regular schooling, repair damaged educational institutions, and provide regular albeit modest teacher salaries. He underscored recent commitments to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals, despite the significant challenges posed by the conflict.

The Prime Minister announced plans to work with international organizations to assess and address the educational sector’s needs, including the development of an emergency education plan. He expressed hope for international cooperation and support in these efforts.

Solidarity and Future Aspirations

Reaffirming solidarity with global efforts to protect education from attacks, particularly in Palestine, Dr. bin Mubarak condemned the targeted destruction of educational institutions in Gaza. He thanked Sheikha Moza bint Nasser for her visionary role in establishing ‘Education Above All’ and her efforts to ensure education for the most vulnerable and marginalized.

The conference featured speeches from Sheikha Moza bint Nasser, representatives of conflict-affected countries, and discussions on the increasing attacks on educational institutions. It emphasized the need for decisive action to make schools safe havens for students and educators.

Attending the conference were Yemen’s Ambassador to Qatar, Rajeh Badi, the Prime Minister’s Office Director, Engineer Anis Baharitha, and Ambassador Mujib Osman, Advisor to the Prime Minister.

This participation underscores Yemen’s dedication to overcoming educational challenges and ensuring that future generations have access to safe and quality education amidst ongoing conflicts.

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