Media Update: United Nations Pakistan, 13 May 2026

UNICEF calls for protection of schools following attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan

Statement by Pernille Ironside,

UNICEF Representative in Pakistan

ISLAMABAD, 12 May 2026 - "UNICEF is deeply concerned by the continued attacks on schools in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. Yesterday, a Government Girls Primary School in Kamdabak, Tank District, was reportedly destroyed by explosives.

"This is the ninth reported attack on a school in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa since the beginning of 2026, disrupting education for over 1,000 students and instilling fear in local communities. While no casualties were reported, two teachers and a school principal were injured in a drone attack on a school in North Waziristan in January 2026.

"This alarming trend further compounds a severe education crisis in the province, where an estimated 4.5 million children aged 5 to 16-one in three-are out of school, with girls disproportionately affected.

"Every child has the right to safe, inclusive and uninterrupted education. Attacks on schools are a grave violation of children's rights and rob girls and boys of opportunities to learn, develop and reach their full potential.

"Schools must be safe havens and must never be targets.

"UNICEF stands with the affected children, families, teachers and communities and calls for urgent action to restore learning and ensure students can return to school safely without fear.

"The protection of children and their right to education must be upheld at all times.

About UNICEF

UNICEF, the United Nations agency for children, works to protect the rights of every child, everywhere, especially the most disadvantaged children and in the toughest places to reach. Across more than 190 countries and territories, we do whatever it takes to help children survive, thrive, and fulfil their potential.

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Contact information:

Karen Reidy

Chief of Advocacy and Communication

UNICEF Pakistan

Email: [email protected]

Tel: +92 302 828 4385