Title: The compromised start of the school year in the Kwamouth territory in the DRC: a sad observation of persistent insecurity
Introduction :
The start of the school year is a crucial time for thousands of children and teachers around the world. Unfortunately, in the territory of Kwamouth in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the start of the school year has not yet taken place in several villages. A headteacher has testified about the distressing situation he encountered in Engweme village in Kwamouth. Destroyed schools, scattered school documents, growing insecurity, all obstacles that prevent school activities from resuming normally in this region. Let’s take stock of this worrying situation.
Schools destroyed, school documents scattered:
The headteacher, who preferred to remain anonymous, saw with his own eyes the damage caused to schools in the Kwamouth area. On his return to Engweme village, he was confronted with a distressing sight. Classrooms were destroyed, school documents were scattered. He found no students there, a sign that the start of the school year was in jeopardy.
Persistent insecurity:
In addition to material damage, insecurity is a major factor preventing the resumption of school activities. The head of the establishment testified about his meeting with one of his former students who had become a militiaman. He made it clear to him that the presence of teachers was a danger to their safety. Faced with this threat, the head of the school had to hide for several days before leaving the region, making it impossible to set up teaching this year.
The fears of school leaders:
In Bandundu, more than 40 school heads and teachers expressed their refusal to return to Kwamouth until security is restored, homes and schools are rebuilt and no security assurance is given. by the government. They do not want to take the risk of endangering their lives and those of the students.
Conclusion :
The situation with the start of the school year in the Kwamouth territory in the DRC is worrying. Destroyed schools, scattered school documents and persistent insecurity are all obstacles preventing the resumption of school activities. It is crucial that the government takes urgent measures to restore peace, rebuild educational infrastructure and ensure the safety of teachers and students. Education is a fundamental right for all children and it is essential to create an environment conducive to their development and learning.