Kathmandu— As the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) grapples with its largest recorded Ebola outbreak, parents and educators are expressing concern over the reopening of schools in affected areas. With 6,041 confirmed cases and 2,911 deaths as of August 31, six provinces including Ituri have been hit hard by the Bundibugyo virus strain. The government is implementing a tiered approach to schooling based on risk levels, with high-risk areas shifting to home learning.

Parents' Concerns

In Bunia, Ituri’s provincial capital, parents are questioning the safety of reopening schools during the ongoing Ebola outbreak. Dieudonne Lotsima, a father of three, expressed his concerns about the lack of specific measures to protect children from the virus. He believes that postponing classes until an effective vaccine is available would be safer.

Government's Approach

The DRC government has categorized areas into green (no reported transmission), orange (affected but with additional precautions), and red (highest risk). In high-risk zones, pupils will study from home using printed materials and radio programs. Workbooks and learning sheets covering essential parts of the curriculum will be distributed to students.

Teachers' Warnings

The Ituri 1 Teachers’ Inter-Union Committee has warned that reopening schools could endanger both children and teachers without proper health measures in place. Budju Lobo Isaac, a trade union member, emphasized the need for handwashing facilities, sanitizers, thermal scanners, and support for teachers to ensure safety.

Educational Role in Fighting Ebola

Professor Yap Boum of the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention sees the return to school as an opportunity to educate children about Ebola prevention. Educated students can then help raise awareness among adults when they return home.

(With inputs from Al Jazeera)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.