School supplies are not meeting the same enthusiasm on the markets of Goma, in North Kivu, as the 2023-2024 school year approaches. Unlike previous years, when parents jostled with sellers, this year seems marked by a certain reluctance.
Several reasons have been put forward to explain this situation. First of all, the precarious security situation in the region is an important factor. Population displacements and armed conflicts have led to the occupation of many classrooms by displaced people, which calls into question the possibility of a normal school year.
In addition, the non-payment of agents and civil servants of the State is also singled out. Parents do not have the financial means to buy school supplies, which translates into a lack of crowds in the markets. Vendors are complaining about this situation and are calling for the payment of salaries in order to revitalize the market for school supplies.
The depreciation of the Congolese franc against the US dollar is also mentioned as one of the reasons for this lack of enthusiasm. Prices have risen, making school supplies less affordable for many parents.
Despite these factors, some traders remain optimistic and hope for more crowds as the start of the school year approaches. Enrollment has only just started at some schools, which suggests an increase in demand in the coming days.
It is important to remember that the EPST calendar provides for the opening of the school year on Monday, September 4th throughout the territory of the Democratic Republic of Congo.
It is to be hoped that solutions will be found to allow children to have access to the necessary school supplies and to guarantee a successful return to school despite the difficulties encountered.
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