Violence Shuts 1 in 4 Schools in Burkina Faso
Burkina Faso’s new school year starts in crisis. UNICEF warns that a shocking 6,149 schools – one in four – remain closed due to ongoing violence and insecurity across the country. This leaves around one million children out of class and exposed to serious risks.
Millions of Kids and Teachers Trapped by Danger
More than 31,000 teachers and over a million children face an unsafe journey back to school. At least 230 schools have been converted into shelters for more than 52,000 displaced people, making education even harder to access for thousands of youngsters.
“Having so many children still unable to return to school due to violence and insecurity, and so many schools closed, is very upsetting,” says John Agbor, UNICEF’s Burkina Faso rep. “We need to keep fighting so every child can learn in safety and peace.”
Determined to Learn Despite the Danger
Despite the turmoil, over 3.8 million boys and girls are eager to get back in the classroom. The Ministry of National Education, with UNICEF and partners, is ramping up efforts to reopen schools, especially in the worst-hit areas.
In 2023 alone, UNICEF-backed initiatives have helped 763,000 children access education through formal schooling, accelerated learning programs, vocational training, and vital school supplies. Teacher training and creating safe, child-friendly schools are also priorities.
Massive Humanitarian Crisis Demands Urgent Funding
But the crisis is deep. Around 5.5 million people need aid, including 3.2 million children caught in the conflict. More than 2 million have been displaced – with kids making up 58% of that group.
UNICEF’s 2023 appeal calls for $226.7 million to keep crucial services running. So far, only 13% has been raised. Without urgent international help, millions of Burkina Faso’s children face a bleak future.
