More than eight million Sudanese children—half of the country's school-age population—are currently out of education due to ongoing conflict, according to a report by Save the Children released on January 22, 2026. The organization warns this represents one of the world's most severe education crises, with students having lost approximately 500 days of schooling since fighting erupted in April 2023.
Schools across Sudan have been repurposed as shelters for displaced families or damaged by violence, particularly in regions like North Darfur where only 3% of schools remain operational. Recent drone strikes in al-Obeid, North Kordofan, have exacerbated civilian casualties and disrupted daily life further.
"The international community is failing Sudan's children," said Save the Children CEO Inger Ashing during a briefing. "Without urgent funding to restore schools and support teachers, the entire education system could collapse."
Humanitarian conditions continue to deteriorate in cities like Al-Fashir and Kadugli, where famine risks loom. Over 100,000 people fled Al-Fashir after paramilitary forces seized control in October 2025 following an 18-month siege. Aid agencies emphasize that education not only provides stability but also protects children from exploitation by armed groups.
With teachers abandoning unpaid jobs and infrastructure in ruins, Save the Children urges global stakeholders to prioritize education funding alongside emergency relief efforts.
