Issue Schools become targets during war since the education of a country's children is so important. Even when schools still operate during war, education is of lower quality. Money is short, the supply of materials is slow, and fear and disruptions make it difficult to create a learning atmosphere. Loss of family members, sadness, and confusion make it difficult to concentrate. In Mozambique, a study estimated that 45 per cent of schools were destroyed as a result of war.
Teachers are often prime targets because they are important community members.
In the recent crisis in Rwanda, more than two-thirds of teachers either fled or were killed. The destruction of educational facilities is one of the greatest setbacks for a country. Years of lost schooling weakens the country and makes it more vulnerable to attack. All possible efforts must be made by warring groups to maintain education systems during conflicts. The international community must insist that Governments involved in war do not target educational facilities and promote active protection of these facilities.