Schools stay closed in NW Region as separatist lockdown disrupts resumption

By Kate Bih

Most public schools in Cameroon’s North West Region remain closed on the second day of school resumption in Cameroon, with only boarding schools reported to be functional.

A lockdown imposed by separatists on the North West and South West Regions continues to cripple life and has now impacted the early days of the highly anticipated return to school.

In divisions like Mezam, Momo, Ngoketunjia, Bui, Menchum, and Boyo, many public schools did not open their doors.

Parents, having struggled through the ongoing armed conflict to prepare their children for the new academic year, opted to keep them home due to threats from separatist groups.

“We’ve bought text books and exercise books despite the hardship, but it’s not safe to send our children out,” said a parent in Bamenda, the regional capital.

While boarding schools have effectively resumed, with students already on campus, the turnout in other educational institutions across the region has been bleak.

Teachers and staff in several public schools also stayed home, citing safety concerns.Calls from teachers’ unions and diplomatic missions have grown louder, urging separatist leaders to allow children to attend school without fear of violence.

These groups have highlighted the critical role education plays in rebuilding the future of the conflict-ridden region.

They argue that continued disruptions could have long-term consequences on the region’s human development.

Despite these appeals, the region’s school resumption remains in limbo as residents brace for more uncertainty in the days to come.

As of now, it remains unclear how many schools will be able to resume classes in the following days, with many waiting to see whether the security situation will improve or deteriorate further.

©Mimi Mefo Info