IDP children at Bakasi camp in Maiduguri have called on the Borno state government to provide them with uniforms and other necessary materials needed in school. Schools reopened in Maiduguri on 25th October 202.

Lady Musa, a junior secondary school student in the camp told RNI’s reporter, Fatima Modu Grema, that she understands everything she is taught it school and that she is extremely happy to resume school because she is tired of life without school. She added that she is happy with her school and she understands English, mathematics, and all other subjects that are taught there.

Another student, Sama’ila Adam, said that their main problem is lack of uniform. He said he understands Arabic well,that his teachers are teaching well and he’s happy to be their student. “We are playing today because today is Friday and we play every Friday with our friends.”

Hauwa Mohammed, a teacher at Bakassi camp, said that she has been there since being displaced. “ The condition of these children in this camp is positive and their passion for education is immeasurable and cannot be overemphasized. As their teacher, I understand that they are hungry for knowledge because some of them were coming to my house for lessons before schools were reopened in the state.”

She went on to say that most  if not all of them quickly understand what they are taught and don’t forget. “If you teach them something today morning and ask them to tell you what they were taught the next day they will tell you exactly what it was. That makes me happy all the time.”

The teacher noted that the school management has made it clear to all teachers and parents in the camp that COVID-19 pandemic preventive measures must be strictly adhered to protect ourselves and the children from the pandemic. She warned that failure to observe the rules may lead to tragedies in the camp.

Bulama Adamu, another teacher at Bakasi camp said that writing is necessary for students, but they don’t have writing materials. He mentioned that two-thirds of the students at Bakasi camp don’t have uniforms and their parents don’t have money to buy uniforms for their children.

He also called on the Borno state government and non-governmental organizations to help the children with uniforms and  other necessary items.