A severe storm damaged the Lycée Technique Mgr. Jean Alfred Ndoricimpa in Burundi, injuring thirteen students and destroying vital structures. With an estimated repair cost of $163,000, community leaders emphasize the urgency of rehabilitation efforts to support local education, as the school is the only secondary option for about 21,000 residents in the Rubirizi region.
A devastating storm recently struck the Lycée Technique Mgr. Jean Alfred Ndoricimpa technical school in the Rubirizi region of Burundi, resulting in significant destruction to its facilities. Established in 2022, this secondary school is crucial for the approximately 21,000 residents in the area, as it is the only one available. The storm’s strong winds and heavy rains led to extensive damage, including the roofs being blown off two buildings and the walls and frames of five classrooms being destroyed, along with the toilets. Tragically, thirteen students sustained injuries, necessitating hospitalization for medical treatment, although their conditions are improving.
Désiré Nirera, the headmaster of the school, reported that the damage assessment revealed severe consequences for the school’s operations. Classes are disrupted, with students being relocated to other spaces such as the teachers’ lounge and church to continue their education. The repair costs are estimated at 472 million Burundian Francs (approximately $163,000 USD), highlighting the urgent need for financial support and resources to facilitate rehabilitation efforts. Community members, including Rev. Valentine Cimpaye, emphasized the vital role of the school in ensuring educational access for local children.
In addition to the destruction at the school, the storm’s impact was widespread, affecting other infrastructure in the vicinity, including homes and churches. Local officials are actively seeking assistance from the government and humanitarian organizations to aid in the recovery and rebuilding efforts. Community members and officials alike expressed concern for the future of education in the region unless prompt action is taken to restore the school’s facilities and provide necessary resources for the students.
The Lycée Technique Mgr. Jean Alfred Ndoricimpa technical school, founded by The United Methodist Church in the Burundi Conference in 2022, serves as a crucial educational institution in the Rubirizi region. This area lacks alternative secondary school options, making the institution significant for local youth’s educational prospects. The school structure includes two sections, focusing on electromechanics and works supervision. Recent torrential rains and heavy winds have tested the resilience of this institution, leading to injuries and severe infrastructural damage, prompting an urgent need for response and repairs.
The catastrophic storm that struck the Lycée Technique Mgr. Jean Alfred Ndoricimpa has highlighted critical vulnerabilities in the educational infrastructure of the Rubirizi region. With the damage leaving many students without adequate places to study, community leaders are rallying for immediate assistance to restore the school and its facilities. The ongoing commitment of the United Methodist Church, along with local support, will be essential in the recovery process, ensuring that students can continue their education without further interruption.
Original Source: www.umnews.org
