A new report from eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) points to a steep decline in school attendance as insecurity continues to disrupt daily life.<\/p>\n
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A local non-governmental organisation monitoring education trends in the Goma region says 14 schools recorded a 28% drop in pupil numbers over the past year. The findings highlight the growing strain on families affected by prolonged conflict and displacement.<\/p>\n
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According to the charity, the fall in enrolment reflects mounting economic hardship among both resident communities and those forced to flee fighting in surrounding areas. Many households are struggling to meet basic needs, making it increasingly difficult to keep children in school.<\/p>\n
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The organisation attributes the rising drop-out rate to a combination of factors, including food insecurity and the financial burden associated with education. In some cases, parents are required to contribute additional \u201cbonus\u201d payments to supplement teachers\u2019 salaries, costs that have become prohibitive for vulnerable families.<\/p>\n
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The report also warns of broader social consequences. It says limited access to education, coupled with a lack of supervision for out-of-school children, risks fuelling urban crime, violence and early or forced marriages.<\/p>\n
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Eastern DRC has endured years of instability driven by armed group activity, with education frequently disrupted by clashes and displacement. Aid groups are calling for increased support to safeguard schooling and prevent further erosion of learning opportunities in conflict-affected communities.<\/p>\n
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