UNICEF condemns attack on school in Kasese and calls for respect of schools as a safe place for all learners
Statement attributable to Munir Safieldin (Ph. D), UNICEF Representative to Uganda
KAMPALA, 17 JUNE 2023 – The United Nations Children’s Fund – UNICEF decisively condemns the attack on Lhubiriha Secondary School in Kasese District, which resulted in the tragic loss of innocent lives, the killing of 25 students and abduction of an unidentified number of learners.
According to media reports, the killings and abductions took place on the night of Friday June 16, 2023, the same day gazetted to commemorate the Day of the African Child.
UNICEF demands the immediate release and safe return of the abducted learners.
UNICEF extends its sincere condolences and sympathy to the grieving families and friends of the deceased.
“We stand in solidarity with the students, the teaching staff, the school authorities, families of those impacted and the people of Uganda in this sad moment,” said Safieldin.
“Schools must always provide safe and secure environment for learners, teachers and support personnel. We must work together, tirelessly and resolutely, to ensure that such acts of violence never disrupt the sanctity of educational institutions,” he adds.
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