Title: “The start of the school year compromised in regions under terrorist occupation: an alarming situation”
Introduction :
As the start of the school year approaches, growing concern hovers over the regions of Rutshuru, Masisi and Nyiragongo, prey to the occupation of M23 terrorists. The consequences of this occupation are already being felt, particularly in the field of education. Indeed, one week before the start of the school year for the year 2023-2024, no concrete initiative has been put in place to allow the opening of schools in these territories. This alarming situation is denounced by Héritier Gashegu, coordinator of the citizen movement “Vision for the Victory of the People”. In this article, we will explore the implications of this new blank year and the calls for action for children’s education in these regions.
An educational disaster in perspective:
Since 1998, the Democratic Republic of Congo has experienced numerous challenges linked to crises and foreign occupations. However, blank years in the education system had never been observed. The Congolese state had always assumed its responsibilities towards teachers and ensured that children could study despite the difficulties. However, the current occupation of the Rutshuru, Masisi and Nyiragongo regions by the M23 has created an unprecedented disruption in access to education.
The consequences of this situation are deplorable. Children in these regions have already lost two school years, and the prospect of a third blank year is a real catastrophe for their future. Not only is their education compromised, but it also impacts their personal development, their ability to build a better future and the future stability of the region.
Calls to action and shared responsibilities:
Faced with this critical situation, the citizen movement “Vision for the Victory of the People” launches a vibrant appeal to the Congolese State, sectors and trade union organizations so that they take concrete measures to allow children to return to the path of life. ‘school. It is essential to put in place suitable solutions to guarantee a secure and conducive environment for learning in these regions.
The Congolese state must take its responsibilities in terms of financial and logistical support for schools and teachers, despite the difficulties caused by the terrorist occupation. Sectors and trade union organizations must also fully commit to defending the rights of teachers and facilitating their deployment in these regions.
In addition, regional and international coordination is necessary to put pressure on the terrorist groups that occupy these territories and put an end to their influence.. The international community, regional organizations and the DRC’s partners must work together to find lasting solutions to this conflict and allow a return to stability in these regions.
Conclusion :
The compromised school year in the regions of Rutshuru, Masisi and Nyiragongo under the occupation of M23 terrorists is a real educational disaster. Children in these regions are deprived of their fundamental right to education, thereby jeopardizing their future and the future stability of the region. It is essential that the Congolese State, sectors and trade union organizations, as well as the international community, join forces to put an end to this situation and allow children to return to school in a safe and conducive environment. ‘learning. Education is an essential pillar of development, and it is imperative that we not let these innocent children become victims of this conflict.