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Rapid Support Forces

Sudan Conflict: UNICEF Reports Widespread Attacks on Schools and Civilian Facilities

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Ongoing fighting between Sudan's military government and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with hundreds of schools and hospitals attacked, leaving thousands of children without access to safe education. The conflict, which began in April last year, has displaced millions of people, including internally displaced persons (IDPs) who have taken shelter in partially opened schools. UNICEF representative Sheldon Yett has condemned the attacks, stating that schools give children a chance to learn and cope with trauma.

Key Takeaways:

  • At least five people were killed and more injured in a bomb attack on a school and marketplace in El Obeid city, Kordofan state.
  • The attacks are part of a larger conflict between the military government and the RSF, which has resulted in the closure of schools for over a year, leaving 17 million school-aged children without access to education.
  • Hundreds of partially opened schools are being used as shelters for IDPs, further restricting children's access to education.
  • Since the beginning of the conflict, over 110 schools and hospitals have been attacked, killing and injuring thousands of children.
  • There has been a five-fold increase in grave violations against children in 2024 compared to two years prior, including sexual violence and recruitment or use in the conflict.
  • UNICEF is calling on all armed forces to end their attacks on civilian facilities and infrastructure and protect children according to their international humanitarian law obligations.

Statistics:

  • 17 million school-aged children in Sudan have been left without access to safe education due to the conflict.
  • Over 110 schools and hospitals have been attacked since the beginning of the conflict.
  • 5,000+ children have been killed or injured in the conflict.
  • There has been a five-fold increase in grave violations against children in 2024 compared to two years prior.
  • Hundreds of partially opened schools are being used as shelters for IDPs.

Sources:

  • UNICEF Representative Sheldon Yett
  • M2 PressWIRE, August 16, 2024
  • "Attack on a city in Sudan kills at least five and injures more," UNICEF statement

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