Neema School, a Protestant school located in the Kalumbi district of the city of Kalemie, has been experiencing a difficult situation in recent days. Indeed, torrential rains caused flooding that invaded the classrooms, making access impossible for students and teachers. This situation forced the school to take urgent measures, including the relocation of its activities to a new site.
Currently, Neema School operates in premises loaned by the Kalemie Pilot University, where six classrooms have been made available. However, these classrooms present challenges in terms of space and conditions suitable for an optimal learning environment. Students spoke about the difficulties encountered, mentioning the lack of space and the overcrowding of the rooms, which compromise their ability to concentrate and assimilate lessons.
The Prefect of Studies of the Neema School Complex also shared his experience, highlighting the precarious working conditions he faces. Without an office, he is forced to work outdoors, exposed to the elements, with minimal equipment that does not meet the essential needs to carry out his duties effectively.
These problems are not unique to Neema School, as other schools in the Kalemie region have also suffered from flooding caused by the waters of Lake Tanganyika. Primary schools such as Neema and Fatuma, as well as the Lac and Lukenta Institutes, have been forced to find alternative solutions to ensure the continuity of classes in the face of this emergency situation.
Local authorities and relevant stakeholders must mobilize additional resources and efforts to meet the needs of affected schools and ensure adequate learning conditions for students and teachers. It is essential to put in place preventive measures and contingency plans to address natural disasters and protect educational infrastructure from such crises in the future.
Ultimately, the situation of flooded schools in Kalemie highlights the importance of resilience and adaptability in the education sector, as well as the need for collective action to ensure a safe learning environment conducive to student success.