© UNICEF/NYHQ2012/Malli Kamimura
From L to R: Susan Durston, Associate Director, Education Section; Colin Kirk, Director, Office of Evaluation; Alan Smith, University of Ulster; Mario Novelli, University of Sussex; Zeena Zakharia, Columbia University

By Shimali Senanayake

NEW YORK, 14 February 2012 – Education can play a crucial role in peacebuilding in all phases of conflict, a UNICEF-commissioned study has concluded, outlining how education can help prevent conflict and contribute to long-term peace.

A fundamental human right of a quality education for all children is most at risk during conflict situations. It is precisely at these times that education can impart knowledge and skills that provide protection and access to life-saving abilities. In the longer term, education can provide values and attitudes that offer the basis for addressing the multiple drivers of conflict.