Douala: IDPs in need of funding for their education
One month into the 2022-2023 academic year, several pupils are still hoping to get into classrooms. Children of many internally displaced persons (IDPs) have been wandering in neighborhoods like Bonendale in the Douala IV sub division because their parents do not have the funds necessary to send them to school:
“I have been in Douala for 6 months now but I have not been able to raise enough money to send my kids to school… They are going on credit” Seidou, a parent explains.
The neighborhood school which accommodates these children is made of make-shift material, is muddy and gets flooded each time it rains. The proprietress, Ngoh Blessing, says she is in distress as she sees her wish to help, almost crumble:
“It is the fifth year running and the salary arrears accumulated is huge. I have been lending money from banks and individuals but it is heavy as many parents are not able meet up with the fee ranging from F CFA 45.000-50000.”
Packs of books and bags have been distributed to these pupils by Dr Vivian Kiffa president of the Change Care Foundation, an NGO, but for how long will this aid last? While giving them the donation, Vivian Kiffa urged teachers and the children to take their work and studies seriously:
“Education is vital. Take your lessons seriously and as for you teachers, I know it is tough but do not give up. The future of these kids is in your hands.”
These didactic materials according to school officials will be given to pupils in need, hoping more help comes to improve on the teaching environment and working condition of teachers.
