By Hou Akot Hou
The majority of schools in Aweil South County, Northern Bahr El Ghazal state, have been forced to shut down due to heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding in the area.
William Malith Malith, the education director for Aweil South County, stated about 35 schools have been closed as a result of the severe downpours that have affected the region.
Malith explained that the schools, situated in low-lying areas, have been completely submerged in water, rendering them unable to function.
“Most of the schools have been shut down and we are incapacitated to make them function. This is worrisome. There is nothing that the educators (teachers) in the affected schools can do,” Malith revealed.
The upcoming August examinations, which mark the second term, are a major concern for the education authorities.
Malith appealed to well-wishers and partners to intervene and provide support, such as plastic sheeting, to help establish new learning infrastructures in higher-ground areas.
Additionally, Malith reported that many school-going children are now reluctant to attend classes due to the heavy flooding, which has cut off access to their homes.
He urged parents to cooperate with teachers and encourage their children to continue their education, even if it means learning under trees during clear weather.
One of the teachers, Mr. Akot Santos, echoed the need for parental cooperation and emphasized the importance of maintaining a zeal for learning despite the challenges posed by the flood disaster.
Last week, the governor of Northern Bahr El Ghazal State, Mr. Simon Uber, held a meeting with international humanitarian, national, and community-based organizations to strategize ways of supporting the internally displaced persons, returnees, and refugees affected by the flooding.
The governor intends to form a task force committee to tackle the disastrous issues and provide aid to the impoverished population during this challenging time of flooding and hyperinflation.