Schools have reopened in parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) affected by an Ebola outbreak, after authorities reversed plans to rely on remote learning in high-risk areas.
The decision was reportedly taken over concerns that prolonged distance learning could leave students in affected communities academically disadvantaged compared with their peers.
Government figures showed that the outbreak had recorded more than 3,000 deaths and 6,186 confirmed cases across six provinces, representing a fatality rate of 48.6 per cent.
More than 1,000 schools in Ituri Province have been classified as “red zones,” indicating areas considered to have active Ebola transmission or a high risk of infection.
Education ministry regulations issued on August 19 had directed schools in the affected areas to switch to distance learning using worksheets, radio and television programmes.
However, an education ministry official said provincial authorities requested that the policy be reversed to prevent students in high-risk communities from falling behind academically.
The official added that schools would be closed and distance learning introduced immediately if an Ebola case were detected.
Schools have also reopened in parts of North and South Kivu under the control of Rwanda-backed AFC/M23 rebels, with authorities requiring students and staff to observe preventive measures, including regular handwashing and social distancing.
The outbreak is reportedly caused by the Bundibugyo species of Ebola, for which there is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment.
Concerns about transmission remain high as children return to classrooms. In Beni, North Kivu, a mother said she packed disinfectant for her three children and warned them to avoid physical contact with classmates.
At schools in affected areas, pupils have been instructed to use hand sanitiser and wash their hands at designated facilities. The education ministry official said hygiene kits had also been installed in schools located in red zones.
Ebola is primarily transmitted through direct contact with the blood or other bodily fluids of an infected person.
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