Conflict in Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo Disrupts Education for Over 1 Million Children

In eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, escalating violence has closed 2,594 schools, impacting over 1 million children. The M23 rebels have intensified attacks, causing safety concerns for students and teachers. The Education Ministry emphasized the severe implications of the conflict on education, stressing that schools have been targeted and destroyed.

The recent surge in violence within the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has resulted in the closure of 2,594 schools, severely impacting over 1.1 million schoolchildren. Government authorities attribute this crisis primarily to the escalating conflict involving M23 rebel forces, which have intensified their offensives against local government troops.

Specifically, 1,483 schools have been shut down in North Kivu and 1,111 in South Kivu. The Ministry of Education has highlighted that safety concerns, exacerbated by the presence of explosive devices, render it increasingly difficult to resume school activities.

Armed groups have bombed and destroyed numerous schools, transforming many into military installations. The ministry articulated, “By targeting students and schools, this war is also a war on our future,” emphasizing the devastating impact on the education sector.

Notably, the M23 group has expanded its territorial control in eastern Congo since December, capturing key provincial capitals such as Goma and Bukavu. This ongoing fighting has resulted in over 7,000 fatalities this year, as reported by Prime Minister Judith Suminwa Tuluka at the UN Human Rights Council.

The conflict in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo poses a significant threat to the education of over 1.1 million children, as violence has led to the closure of thousands of schools. With ongoing military actions and increasing casualties, the situation remains dire for both students and educational institutions. Efforts to restore safety and resume schooling will be critical for the future of the affected regions.

Original Source: www.aa.com.tr