The conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has closed over 2,594 schools, affecting 1.1 million children due to violence from M23 rebels. The Education Ministry has reported serious safety concerns for students and teachers, with many facilities being turned into military bases. The ongoing violence has led to over 7,000 deaths this year, prompting urgent calls for action to safeguard education in the region.
The ongoing conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has severely impacted education, with over 1.1 million schoolchildren affected by school closures. The violence, primarily fueled by the M23 rebel group’s intensified assaults against government forces, has resulted in the shutdown of 2,594 schools, specifically 1,483 in North Kivu and 1,111 in South Kivu provinces. The Ministry of Education has expressed grave concerns over the safety of students and teachers, as many facilities have become sites of violence or military installations.
The Ministry reported, “The resumption of school activities has been difficult, with the safety of students and teachers compromised due to explosive devices in certain schools.” Furthermore, they noted, “Many schools have been bombed, destroyed or transformed into military bases by armed groups. By targeting students and schools, this war is also a war on our future.” The sobering reality is underscored by reports of a school converted into a cemetery, epitomizing the tragedies wrought by the ongoing conflict.
Since December, the M23 rebel group has significantly expanded its territorial control in eastern Congo, capturing major provincial capitals, including Goma and Bukavu. The violence has led to catastrophic human losses, with more than 7,000 fatalities reported in 2023, as stated by Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka at the UN Human Rights Council. The situation continues to pose a dire threat to the education sector and the future of countless children in the region.
In summary, the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has resulted in extensive school closures, deeply affecting the education of over 1.1 million children. The situation is compounded by the transformation of educational institutions into sites of violence, severely compromising the safety of students and educators. With the spread of violence and significant casualties reported, the long-term repercussions on the region’s future remain a grave concern. Immediate actions are necessary to restore safety and educational opportunities for affected children.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
