The Peace and Security Council of the African Union (AU) renewed on Wednesday the commitment of member states to protect the right to education for all, especially in regions of the continent affected by conflicts and crises.

In the final statement of a public session held in Addis Ababa under Algeria’s presidency on the topic of "Education in Conflict Zones in Africa," the Council expressed deep concern over the severe impacts of ongoing conflicts in Africa on the state of education and its systems. It called on member states to commit to the strict and effective implementation of international and continental agreements related to the protection of children and the safeguarding of their fundamental right to education.

The Council emphasized the necessity of intensifying national efforts to ensure this right is guaranteed fairly and equitably for all, and to protect educational systems and institutions from the repercussions of instability and armed conflicts on the continent.

It also stressed the importance of enhancing efforts to protect children in conflict situations and providing the necessary support to address the challenges of ensuring the right to education and teaching, including for children in refugee camps across the continent.

The Council commended the valuable contributions of the former AU Commissioner for Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, Professor Mohamed Belhocine, and the work accomplished under the theme of the AU for 2024, which focuses on developing education systems and fostering competencies in Africa.