Gbenyiri conflict shuts 44 schools, 5,000 children forced out of class
By DL news
Published
2 min read
Authorities confirm that 44 out of 150 schools in the affected circuits have shut down, forcing more than 5,000 pupils out of classrooms. At the same time, 13 teachers have abandoned their posts, citing threats to their safety.
The ongoing land conflict in Gbenyiri, within the Sawla-Tuna-Kalba District of the Savannah Region, has triggered a major educational crisis, leaving thousands of children without schooling.
Authorities confirm that 44 out of 150 schools in the affected circuits have shut down, forcing more than 5,000 pupils out of classrooms. At the same time, 13 teachers have abandoned their posts, citing threats to their safety.
Education officials warn the disruption could result in long-term consequences for children already struggling to keep pace with their studies. Parents displaced by the clashes have also been unable to register their children in temporary camps, leaving many youngsters idle. Some have resorted to menial jobs to support their families, sparking fears of permanent school dropouts.
Savannah Regional Director of Education, Bright A. Lawoe, described the situation as dire.
“Thirteen of our staff members cannot work and have gone into hiding because of this unfortunate situation. We have advised the teachers to stay away until we receive assurances from the Security Council that it is safe to return,” he explained.
He added that pupils in the affected communities were already behind academically and the closures would deepen the gap. To help mitigate the setback, he revealed that discussions were ongoing with UNICEF to provide temporary learning centres for displaced children at the camps.
The impact is deeply felt among pupils. Kobena, a student of God Wonders International School, pleaded for peace so schools could reopen:
“Most of my friends have left, but I want to continue my education. We beg the community to resolve this conflict so that children like us can go back to school. We are the future leaders,” he said.
Another pupil, Razak Amidu, appealed to the rival groups:
“Give peace a chance in the interest of children and the vulnerable.”
Parents, too, are distraught. Mariam Alhassan, a mother of three, shared:
“My children ask me every day when they will return to school, and I have no answer for them. It breaks my heart.”
Another parent, Issah Fuseini, warned the crisis could rob an entire generation of their education if it continues.
Background of the conflict
The Gbenyiri dispute, rooted in competing claims over a parcel of land, has already caused devastation. The violence has claimed 31 lives, displaced about 48,000 residents, and destroyed homes and properties.
Many survivors remain in makeshift camps, while others are scattered across nearby districts. Some have even crossed into Ivory Coast in search of refuge.
