Despite the challenges, the education authorities have been working hard to ensure a smooth 2024 session of the First School Leaving Certificate Examination in Meme Divisional headquarters, Kumba. However, their efforts have been hindered by persisting insecurity in the area.
According to Mr Mukete Terence, the Inspector of Basic Education for Kumba 3, he had to keep children from the suburbs fed for close to 2 weeks in order for them to participate in the exams. Madam Kema Victorine, the Inspector of Basic Education for Kumba 2, told reporters that teachers had to go out and actively search for students at their homes, as some parents refused to let their children write the exams due to security concerns.
The numbers tell a concerning story – in Kumba 1 sub-division, 49 children were absent; in Kumba 2 sub-division, 18 out of 2,029 registered students were absent; and in Kumba 3 sub-division, 21 out of 1,287 registered students were absent.
The insecurity in the region has also forced some students from Konye, Mbonge, and Dikomi Balue in Ndian Division to write the exams in Kumba, where the situation is relatively more stable.
“Despite these difficulties, the exams are being strictly guided by security measures in the various centres. We remain committed to ensuring that all students have the opportunity to complete this important milestone in their academic journey” said a spokesperson for the education authorities.
BY EYONGETA EYONG
