The conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has led to the closure of 2,594 schools, affecting over 1.1 million schoolchildren. Increased violence from M23 rebels has prompted safety concerns and the transformation of schools into military bases. This situation has resulted in more than 7,000 casualties this year, creating a critical humanitarian crisis.
The ongoing conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has severely impacted education, with over 1.1 million schoolchildren affected due to violence. The Ministry of Education reported the closure of 2,594 schools across North and South Kivu provinces, where fighting has escalated significantly. In North Kivu, 1,483 schools are closed, while 1,111 are shut down in South Kivu due to safety risks.
The Ministry highlighted that the resumption of educational activities faces challenges as the safety of students and teachers is at risk. Explosive devices have been found in certain schools, further endangering lives. Additionally, many educational institutions have been bombed, destroyed, or repurposed into military bases by armed groups, which has devastating implications for the future of children in the region.
The escalating violence, particularly from the M23 rebels, has exacerbated the situation, leading to significant territorial gains since December. Notably, they have captured the provincial capitals of Goma and Bukavu. The conflict has resulted in over 7,000 fatalities this year alone, according to remarks made by Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka at the UN Human Rights Council.
In summary, the conflict in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo poses a severe threat to educational infrastructure, jeopardizing the future of over 1 million children. The significant closures of schools, coupled with the ongoing violence, illustrate a dire humanitarian crisis that demands urgent international attention and intervention to restore safety and education for the affected populations.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr
