Abu dhabi: UN Secretary-General António Guterres called on all parties to conflict must stop and prevent attacks on schools and other education institutions, meet their obligations under international law, and hold perpetrators accountable. According to Emirates News Agency, Guterres urged countries to invest in education for every child, fully endorse and implement the Safe Schools Declaration, and support the Global Coalition to Protect Education from Attack. He emphasized the importance of working together to prepare and protect education systems, both in person and online, especially for girls and children in vulnerable situations. He also highlighted the necessity of safely reintegrating children and youth associated with armed forces and groups back into schools and communities. The United Nations offers a range of tools to support countries in these efforts, including practical guidance and policy support from UNESCO. Guterres described education as a passport to a better future and a fundamental h uman right, warning that this right is becoming increasingly dangerous to exercise. Over the past two years, more than 8,500 attacks worldwide have targeted schools, students, and teachers, resulting in violence, abductions, and trauma. Guterres affirmed that all States have an obligation to ensure the right to education for every child and the safety of schools and places of learning. The International Day to Protect Education from Attack is observed annually on September 9 to raise global awareness about the urgent need to safeguard schools, students, and teachers during armed conflict.