BIRMINGHAM: Ban Ki-Moon, Secretary General of the United Nations, has paid glowing tributes to the victims of the Army Public School on the first anniversary of the brutal attack.

In a statement released by the United Nations, Ban Ki-Moon extended ‘good wishes’ to the family, friends and loved ones of all the victims.

“One year later, I know the pain and sorrow of this utterly senselessness act remains fresh. So does the outrage. No cause justifies such brutality. No grievance excuses the horror and cowardice of attacking defenceless children while they learn,” he said.

He said he had been deeply moved by the resolve and resilience of students as they returned to school just weeks after the attack. “Through that simple act, they have shown the power of education, hope and peace.”

“Going to school should not have to be an act of bravery,” he said while emphasizing schools must be safe and secure learning spaces.