The extreme heat currently gripping South Sudan has forced the government to take a drastic decision: the closure of all schools from Monday. This preventive measure aims to protect children as temperatures could reach up to 45 degrees Celsius. The Ministries of Health and Education have advised parents to keep their children indoors during this heatwave, or risk seeing schools lose their accreditation.
This decision was welcomed positively by residents, aware of the need to preserve the health of young people. Some, however, emphasize the need for better infrastructure, such as the electrification of schools to allow the installation of air conditioners and provide a more comfortable environment for students.
South Sudan, faced with multiple challenges such as armed conflicts, humanitarian crises and the impacts of climate change, faces a critical situation. The country is vulnerable to the effects of extreme heat, with heat waves becoming more frequent and intense. Living conditions are made even more difficult by the floods and droughts affecting the region.
This initiative by the South Sudanese authorities highlights the importance of prevention and protection of vulnerable populations in the face of climatic extremes. It is crucial that adaptation and mitigation measures are put in place to ensure the safety and well-being of all.