The ongoing conflict in Ethiopia’s Amhara region has caused widespread disruptions to education, leaving millions of students unable to resume their studies. Persistent clashes between federal forces and the Fano militia have created an unstable environment, severely impacting schools and students across the region.
In the Raya Kobo district, schools such as Mendefera Primary, Golash Secondary, Zobel Secondary, and Rama Secondary have been closed since September 2024, preventing the registration of students for the new academic year. This disruption highlights the broader challenges facing education in the region.
Some schools, including Mindeina, Harbet, and Derba, have remained non-functional since September 2023, unable to carry out any teaching or learning activities. Reports indicate that these closures have left millions of children without access to education as the new academic year progresses.
The Amhara Education Bureau had initially set a target of enrolling seven million students for the current academic season. However, only about two million students have been registered so far, reflecting a significant decline in enrollment. This shortfall underscores the extensive impact of the conflict on education in rural areas and towns.
The region has been grappling with ongoing clashes, with the Fano militia and federal government forces locked in a prolonged struggle. The insecurity has not only disrupted education but has also posed serious challenges to daily life for residents.
Education in the Amhara region was already impacted during the previous academic year, and the situation has worsened in 2024. As schools remain closed and enrollment plummets, millions of students face an uncertain future, with no clear resolution to the ongoing conflict in sight.