ACBAR

Agency Coordinating Body for Afghan Relief and Development (ACBAR) consisting of 167 national and international Non-Government Organisations (NGOs) working in Afghanistan in all sectors of need, strongly condemns the horrific attack against an educational centre in west Kabul on Friday 30th September. The centre is in a predominantly Hazara Shia neighborhood and, according to emergency responders, the explosion has killed at least 49 students and injured at least 97 more. These were mainly young women, high school graduates preparing to take the konkor, the university entrance exam.
We repeat, as non-government organisations, that education is a fundamental right, and children must be protected in accessing schools.
“Attacking a room full of young students working hard to get an education is a horrific and shameful act”, said Mr. Fazel Rabi Haqbeen, Chairperson of ACBAR. “More must be done to protect the next generation of Afghanistan’s future doctors, teachers, and other critical professionals.”
“Education for all makes the world a better place, and we know that when girls and boys are educated, life improves for families and communities,” added Mona Sherpa, Deputy Country Director for CARE Afghanistan.
We call on the relevant authorities to ensure girls and boys can go to school safely, be protected against threats, harassment, and attacks and thoroughly enjoy their right to an education.
Our thoughts are with the families and friends of those who were the victims.
ACBAR Contacts:
Fiona Gall, Interim Director – Tel: 0793 771 070
Niamatullah Rahi, Deputy Director – Tel: 0793 771 058