ADDIS ABABA, Jan. 3 (Xinhua) -- More than nine million children are out of school across Ethiopia due to man-made and natural disasters, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) has disclosed.

In its latest Ethiopia Humanitarian Situation Report released late Thursday, UNICEF said that more than 6,000 schools have been closed across the East African country due to climate shocks and conflicts.

The report further noted that over 10,000 schools, representing 18 percent of schools across the country, have been damaged by conflicts and climate shocks, further reducing the availability of safe and functional learning spaces for children.

Highlighting the ongoing conflict situations in different parts of Ethiopia, particularly in the country's Amhara and Oromia regions, UNICEF said the education sector has been "devastated." Over nine million children are currently out of school due to conflicts, natural disasters, and displacement.

The Ethiopian government often blamed "extremist groups" for obstructing vital services, such as education and development initiatives, in areas where armed groups are present.

Meanwhile, UNICEF warned that funding shortfall is hampering its humanitarian response in Ethiopia as the country encounters mounting humanitarian needs.

"UNICEF continues to appeal for support to ensure that children and their caregivers receive lifesaving support in 2024 and beyond," it said. Enditem

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