Central Africa – Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) Educational Crisis

January 12, 2013

By Padmini Arhant

The quagmire contributing to lack of economic development in Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) has not only resulted in the loss of staggering 5.5million lives thus far but also severely affected the future of children in that war torn nation.

Arguably, the preventable crisis in eastern region of Congo between M23 i.e. March 23 movement and western backed government in the capital, Kinshasa has been unnecessarily prolonged in semblance with Mali dispute involving the disenfranchised natives Tuaregs in the northern territory and the respective western installed government in Bamako facilitating pretext for western powers invasion in the current French air raids and U.S. drone strikes is the contemporary trend imposed on vulnerable nations around the world.

DRC in particular has experienced devastations in many aspects and sadly civilians pay the price with children being the worst victims of warfare.

The conflict in North and South Kivu provinces has destroyed livelihood and infrastructure not even sparing schools in both provinces used as temporary shelters for fleeing population seeking refuge.

According to UNICEF report – Over 600 schools are damaged in North and South Kivu territories and as a result around 240,000 students apparently missed weeks of schooling due to ongoing unrest in the eastern part of the country.

UNICEF is seeking $6 million (€ 4.6 million) for educational projects in two provinces protecting children from harm’s way.

This is undoubtedly a grave situation and often transforms into a breeding ground for violence leading to child soldier recruitment favoring major military powers arms industry.

World citizens are urged to kindly come forward with their generous donations in assisting UNICEF educational project in eastern Congo.

We cannot deny the children of DRC and elsewhere caught in the crossfire, a safe existence with basic requirements such as proper educational facilities and environment conducive for survival.

Please do not hesitate to demonstrate your compassion, the inherent quality of human beings to attend to those in dire strait.

You may visit UNICEF website and reach out to children in Democratic Republic of the Congo and please help them with their target goal – i.e. $6 million or (€ 4.6 million) for North and South Kivu school project.

Your generosity and kindness is much appreciated.

Peace to all!

Thank you.

Padmini Arhant

Comments

Got something to say?

You must be logged in to post a comment.