In response to security challenges affecting communities in Ituri, MONUSCO launched Operation Safe Schooling to help keep learning spaces open and secure, and to reinforce a protective environment for children and education staff. The operation includes patrols around schools, support to safer movement for pupils and staff, and reinforcement of community-based prevention, early warning and response mechanisms.
11,585 students covered in targeted locations
In total, 11,585 students are covered by protection activities in targeted locations across Ituri.
Students protected by contingent/area:
BANRDB — 4,428 students
Locations/schools: Bayoo (EP2 Bule School & Int. Lopa Bule), Drodro (École primaire Drodro & École primaire de Dawa), Rhoo (École primaire Maze Village & École primaire Diachulu).INDORDB — 1,757 students
Locations/schools: Tchabi Village (primary & secondary), Bogoro Village (primary & secondary), Kimbasese Village (primary), Makayanga Village (primary & secondary).NEPBATT — 5,400 students
Locations/schools: Djaiba School, Lodha School, Institut de Libi, Fataki School, plus several schools in Gina (EP Dheu-Tsju, EP2 Bwanasula, EP Toloo-Pangapanga, EP Lonazina, EP Gina-Gina, EP Nyampala, EP Molinga).
Community engagement to restore normalcy
Field remarks indicate that schools in Bayoo are currently closed. The National Support (NS) component is engaging community leaders to help restore normalcy, in a coordinated approach that remains sensitive to the local context.
Through Operation Safe Schooling, MONUSCO aims to support conditions in which children can learn more safely, by reinforcing prevention and protection around schools while supporting community dynamics that help sustain essential services.
More photos on our Flickr Album
-Ndeye Khady Lo
