SPECIAL REPORT: Education at Risk: The Impact of Insurgency on Schools System In Yobe and Borno State

By Aisha Ali

Kanempress Digital Hub

6th December 2024

The Boko Haram insurgency has not only devastated the educational landscape in Yobe and Borno States but has also created a complex web of challenges that require urgent attention. To gain deeper insights into the situation, interviews with experts in education, humanitarian aid, and conflict resolution can provide valuable perspectives on the multifaceted impacts of this crisis.

The destruction of educational infrastructure is one of the most visible effects of the insurgency. The ongoing violence has resulted in the destruction of numerous schools, which has disrupted academic progress and displaced thousands of students and teachers. According to Dr. Amina Mohammed, an education specialist, “The physical destruction of schools is just the tip of the iceberg; the psychological impact on students and teachers is equally devastating.” This sentiment is said by local educators who emphasize the need for immediate rebuilding efforts to restore educational access.

The disruption of boarding school feeding programs has emerged as a critical issue. Many schools have relocated to urban centers due to insecurity, leaving rural students without access to essential services. During an interview, a local school administrator noted,

“The relocation of institutions like the College of Agriculture from Gujba to Damaturu has left many families struggling to support their children’s education.” This displacement not only affects enrollment rates but also exacerbates food insecurity among students who rely on school meals for nutrition.

The insurgency has severely disrupted food supply chains necessary for maintaining boarding school feeding programs. In interviews with local farmers, many expressed frustration over their inability to cultivate crops due to ongoing violence. One farmer stated, “We want to feed our children, but we cannot plant or harvest safely.” This disruption leads to reliance on irregular food supplies, which adversely affects students’ health and academic performance.

Rural communities have been disproportionately affected by these educational disruptions. An NGO representative emphasized that “the destruction of local schools and the relocation of institutions have created significant barriers for rural students seeking an education.” Families often cannot afford the additional costs associated with sending their children to urban schools, resulting in increased dropout rates.

In response to these challenges, various initiatives have been launched by government bodies and NGOs. Interviews with NGO workers reveal ongoing efforts to provide psychosocial support for traumatized students and teachers. A representative from UNICEF stated, “Our focus is not just on rebuilding infrastructure but also on addressing the emotional scars left by this conflict.” However, experts agree that these efforts need to be scaled up significantly to make a meaningful impact.

To effectively address these challenges, a multi-faceted approach is essential. Strengthening security measures around schools is crucial for ensuring safe learning environments. Investing in rebuilding school facilities—including kitchens and dining areas—will facilitate proper feeding programs. Promoting local farming initiatives can help ensure a steady supply of food for boarding schools.

Providing scholarships and financial aid can alleviate transportation and accommodation costs for rural students attending urban schools. Partnering with organizations like UNICEF and the World Food Programme can develop sustainable feeding programs that ensure continuity in education during emergencies.

The impact of Boko Haram’s insurgency on education in Yobe and Borno States is profound and requires urgent action from all stakeholders involved. By incorporating expert views and firsthand accounts from those affected by this crisis, we can better understand the complexities at play and work towards effective solutions that restore educational access and quality for all students in these regions.

Only through united action can we ensure that children affected by this conflict are empowered with the education they deserve—a vital step toward building a brighter future free from violence and instability.

In order to move forward, it is essential to recognize the importance of education in rebuilding communities affected by conflict. Education provides a sense of normalcy and stability, and it is crucial for the social, economic, and emotional development of children. Furthermore, education can play a critical role in promoting peace and stability by fostering tolerance, understanding, and empathy among different communities.

Therefore, it is imperative that all stakeholders, including governments, NGOs, and local communities, work together to address the challenges facing the education sector in Yobe and Borno States. This requires a sustained commitment to providing support and resources to affected communities, as well as a willingness to adapt and evolve in response to changing circumstances.

It is worth noting that the restoration of educational access and quality in Yobe and Borno States will require a long-term effort that involves the active participation and engagement of all stakeholders. By working together, we can help ensure that children affected by this conflict receive the education they deserve, and that they are empowered to build a brighter future for themselves and their communities.