The government of South Sudan has taken decisive action by ordering the closure of all schools, effective Monday, March 18, 2024. The announcement, made by the country’s health ministry, comes amidst mounting concerns over the health and safety of students and staff in the face of soaring temperatures.
The decision to close schools was prompted by reports of several fatalities attributed to the scorching heat. With temperatures soaring to unprecedented levels, authorities deemed it necessary to prioritize the well-being of the populace, particularly vulnerable children.
Officials have urged parents and guardians to keep their children indoors during the hottest hours of the day and to take necessary precautions to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Local communities have been mobilized to provide assistance to those most affected by the heatwave, including the elderly and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Efforts are underway to establish cooling centers and distribute relief supplies, such as water and fans, to mitigate the impact of the extreme weather.
While the closure of schools is a temporary measure, the government remains vigilant in monitoring the situation and is prepared to take further action as needed. Authorities have also emphasized the importance of addressing the underlying factors contributing to rising temperatures, including climate change, in order to safeguard the well-being of the population in the long term.
