Saint-Luc Primary School, within the Kigonze IDP site in Bunia, is currently facing an emergency situation: hosting more than 1,280 children fleeing violence by armed groups in the territories of Djugu and Irumu. These children, victims of the recent attack on Lodjo, Bianda, Galayi and Pluto, are flocking in large numbers in search of safety and education.
However, the school is overwhelmed, faced with a glaring lack of classrooms. With only nine classrooms available and an average of more than 80 students per class, the capacity is largely exceeded. This situation jeopardizes the quality of education and the well-being of children, already weakened by the precarious conditions of the IDP site.
School officials also denounce the lack of basic infrastructure, such as toilets. Since last year, children have been exposed to significant health risks due to the lack of adequate sanitation facilities. In addition, the dilapidated wooden walls threaten the safety of students, creating an additional climate of insecurity.
To make matters worse, the school suffers from a shortage of teachers. Many teachers, originally from the territories of Djugu and Irumu, have returned to their regions of origin following the improvement in the security situation. This human resource crisis further weakens the functioning of the school and compromises the quality of education provided to displaced children.
In the face of these major challenges, it is urgent that the relevant authorities take measures to support the Saint-Luc primary school. Efforts must be made to provide adequate infrastructure, strengthen the teaching staff and ensure a safe and conducive learning environment for all displaced children. It is essential to preserve the fundamental right to education of these children, despite the difficult circumstances they face.