Congo Schools Reopen Despite Rising Ebola Cases
About 31 million students return to classrooms as authorities balance education with Ebola prevention measures.
- DRC schools reopen despite ongoing Ebola outbreak.
- Face-to-face classes continue where health conditions allow.
- Distance learning may be used in high-risk areas.
Schools across the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) have reopened for the new academic year despite the country’s ongoing Ebola outbreak and insecurity in some regions.
Education Minister Raissa Malu announced that classes resumed nationwide on Tuesday, including in areas currently affected by the health crisis.
Speaking to reporters in Kinshasa, Malu acknowledged that parts of the country continue to face insecurity and conflict, while others are dealing with the growing health threat posed by Ebola.
She said face-to-face teaching would continue in areas where health conditions permit, provided schools strictly follow recommended preventive measures.
However, the government may introduce a limited distance-learning programme in areas considered to be at higher risk to ensure students can continue their education without being exposed to unnecessary health dangers.
The outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo virus strain, has reportedly spread across 60 health zones in six provinces.
According to a Health Ministry update released Tuesday, confirmed cases have reached 6,100, including 2,950 deaths.
Ituri province remains the epicentre of the outbreak as authorities work to contain the spread of the disease.
Despite the health crisis, about 31 million students are expected to return to classrooms across the country this academic year.
