Full Breakdown
Drone Strikes on Educational Institutions Escalate in Sudan's Kordofan Region
2/25/2026, 12:09:37 PM
Overview of Recent Attacks
The University of Kordofan in El-Obeid, North Kordofan state, has reported significant damage to its campus following drone strikes attributed to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) on February 23, 2023. The attack targeted multiple buildings, causing extensive destruction to infrastructure. While no immediate casualties were reported, the Emergency Lawyers Association condemned the strike, emphasizing that targeting educational institutions violates international humanitarian law and jeopardizes students' futures amid the ongoing conflict in Sudan.
Context of the Conflict
Since April 2023, Sudan has been embroiled in a civil war between the national army and the RSF, leading to tens of thousands of deaths and displacing approximately 13 million people. The Kordofan region has emerged as a critical battleground, with both factions engaging in drone strikes that have devastated civilian infrastructure, including schools and healthcare facilities. The RSF has been attempting to re-encircle El-Obeid, launching successive attacks on strategic locations, which has exacerbated the humanitarian crisis in the region.
Systematic Targeting of Educational Institutions
The Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research in Sudan has characterized the drone strike on the University of Kordofan as part of a systematic pattern of RSF-led attacks on educational institutions. The Ministry condemned the assault, highlighting the destruction of major lecture halls and the broader implications for academic freedom and stability. It called for regional and international organizations to classify the RSF as a "terrorist rebel group" due to its organized targeting of civilian institutions.
Eyewitness Accounts and Impact on Civilians
Eyewitnesses reported that the drone strikes have resulted in injuries among students, with one account detailing a dozen students hurt during an attack on a Koranic school in the region. The violence has not only disrupted educational activities but has also left communities without access to essential services such as healthcare, clean water, and food. The World Health Organization reported that in early February alone, three health facilities were attacked, resulting in numerous fatalities.
Official Statements and Responses
In its condemnation of the attacks, the Ministry of Higher Education emphasized the legal and moral implications of targeting academic institutions, stating, “The targeting of higher education and scientific research institutions is a complete crime and a gross violation of all national and international laws.” The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to protecting educational institutions and ensuring accountability for those responsible for the attacks.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics, including human rights organizations, have voiced concerns over the RSF's tactics, arguing that the systematic targeting of educational facilities undermines the right to education and violates international norms. The Emergency Lawyers Association has called for greater accountability and international intervention to protect civilians and educational institutions from such assaults.
Conclusion
The ongoing conflict in Sudan, particularly in the Kordofan region, continues to have devastating effects on civilian life and educational infrastructure. As drone strikes escalate, the humanitarian crisis deepens, prompting urgent calls for international attention and action to safeguard the rights of students and the integrity of educational institutions.
