In the province of Ituri, the education sector is greatly affected by the persistent insecurity that reigns in the territories of Djugu, Mambasa and Irumu. More than eighty primary and secondary schools are currently closed, leaving thousands of students without access to education. The reasons for this alarming situation lie mainly in the activism of local and foreign armed groups operating in the region, notably the Islamist terrorists of the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF).
The consequences of the closure of these educational establishments go far beyond the simple interruption of classes. Indeed, many students have already been victims of violent attacks by the attackers, with some having lost their lives while others have been kidnapped to be used in war activities. Teachers, too, find themselves in a situation of great vulnerability, their safety also being compromised by the prevailing insecurity.
Alongside these security problems, several schools have also been damaged, or even completely destroyed, during natural disasters and tragic events. The need to rebuild and rehabilitate these establishments is vital to guarantee a return to normal and provide children with a safe educational environment conducive to their development.
Despite the efforts of the authorities and ongoing military operations in the region, insecurity persists and continues to rage, leaving the local population in a state of permanent precariousness and uncertainty. There is an urgent need to find lasting solutions to restore peace and security in Ituri province, so that education can once again play its essential role in building a better future for all.
Faced with this major humanitarian and educational crisis, it is imperative that concrete and effective measures are taken to protect younger generations and guarantee their access to education. Education is a fundamental right for all children, and it is the responsibility of society as a whole to ensure that they can benefit from it in a safe and secure environment.