Mali closes schools due to fuel crisis

GD&TĐ - The Mali government has just announced the closure of all schools and universities for two weeks, starting Monday, due to a severe fuel shortage that has paralyzed transportation and education activities.

The crisis stemmed from a blockade by the militant group Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), which has blocked fuel imports into Mali since early September.

Militants have attacked fuel convoys, causing supplies to plummet and paralyzing the economy of the landlocked West African nation. In the capital, Bamako, many gas stations have been closed, forcing people to walk, use motorbike taxis or limit their movements.

Analysts say the blockade is an attempt by JNIM to put pressure on Mali's military government, as the country faces many security and economic challenges.

In the capital Bamako, many schools reported teachers unable to get to class due to lack of transport, while students in rural areas were left completely isolated. Many parents fear that the prolonged disruption will increase the risk of children dropping out of school, especially in areas that already lack educational resources.

In addition, rising fuel costs have left schools’ backup generators unable to operate, limiting online teaching and technical training. At universities, many laboratories have had to temporarily suspend operations, reducing the quality of training in science and engineering fields.

Without sustainable solutions to ensure fuel supply and security, Mali risks facing a generation of young people lacking skills and opportunities, perpetuating a spiral of socio-economic instability.

According to The Straits Times

Source: https://giaoducthoidai.vn/mali-dong-cua-truong-hoc-vi-khung-hoang-nhien-lieu-post754468.html