DR Congo: Catholic schools prepare for new academic year amid Ebola threat
Catholic schools in the Diocese of Bunia, DR Congo, are preparing for the 2026-2027 academic year while facing a severe Ebola outbreak. Despite efforts to implement health safety measures like handwashing stations and temperature checks, schools report a critical lack of funding and equipment.
Why it matters
The intersection of a public health crisis and the education system highlights the vulnerability of essential services in regions affected by disease outbreaks.
By Severin Moussavou According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the current outbreak of the Ebola virus is spreading more rapidly than any previous outbreak, with a provisional toll of 4,449 confirmed cases and 2,061 deaths. Amid the health situations, the Congolese Ministry of National Education has officially announced the calendar for the 2026–2027 academic year, with classes set to resume throughout the country on Tuesday, 1 September. In the Diocese of Bunia, in Ituri Province, preparations are taking place in particularly difficult circumstances as the country faces its 17th Ebola outbreak. Speaking to Vatican News, Fr.. Willy-Rogatien Dzaringa, diocesan coordinator of Bunia’s Catholic schools, outlined the measures being put in place to enable pupils to return to school safely.
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