The post-war economic situation and severe drought have forced 60% of students in Ethiopia’s Tigray region to drop out of school.
Ismail Abdurahman, head of the Regional Education Bureau, reported this alarming statistic to Anadolu.
He noted that the region struggles to recover from the conflict that began in November 2020, which has resulted in hundreds of thousands of deaths and millions displaced.
Although hostilities have eased since peace agreements were signed in South Africa and Kenya in November 2022, long-term effects of the war remain.
These effects have intensified economic and social challenges, making it difficult for students to return to education.
Abdurahman mentioned that the region had aimed to enroll 2.5 million students but has only managed to register nearly one million.
Many students are forced to work to support their families, especially in drought-affected areas.
Currently, 106 schools are being used as camps for internally displaced persons, further hindering educational access.
Moujib, a high school teacher, expressed frustration over students considering leaving the country for better opportunities instead of continuing their education.
He emphasized that economic pressures are affecting teachers as well, with many going months without pay.
