The long-awaited start of the school year in public schools in Beni, North Kivu 2 educational province, was disrupted by a boycott movement launched by the Intersyndical des enseignants de la région. While students were present and ready to start a new school year, teachers, in accordance with their union’s watchword, decided not to honor their service that day.
This situation left public schools in Beni in a delicate situation, with empty classrooms and children left to their own devices in the playgrounds. School officials were present but powerless in the face of the absence of teachers. The few rare teachers who showed up were unable to teach classes, preferring to comply with the ongoing strike movement.
Conversely, private schools saw the start of the school year go smoothly, with teachers and students present. Classes resumed normally, offering a striking contrast to the situation in public schools.
This absence of teachers in public schools has caused disappointment and frustration among students who had returned with enthusiasm after two months of vacation. The deputy head of EPST Beni, Olivier Matsoro Lenge, has called on teachers to resume their duties and ensure the continuity of the school calendar.
This situation raises various questions about the working conditions of teachers, their legitimate demands and the impact of these strike movements on the education of young people. It is essential to find a balance between the demands of teaching staff and the right to education of students, in order to guarantee an environment conducive to learning and the development of all.
Ultimately, this eventful return to school in Beni highlights the complex issues facing the education system. It is crucial that all stakeholders engage in dialogue and find sustainable solutions to ensure the stability and quality of education, always putting the needs of students at the heart of priorities.