South Sudan has shut down all schools for two weeks due to a persistent heatwave, with temperatures expected to reach 42°C (107.6°F). This extreme weather has resulted in several students collapsing, and it marks the second time this year the country has closed schools during a heatwave in February and March.

Extreme Heat Puts Students’ Health at Risk

On Thursday, Deputy Education Minister Martin Tako Moi reported that an average of 12 students were collapsing daily in Juba, the capital city. The majority of schools in South Sudan are housed in makeshift structures made of iron sheets and lack cooling systems or electricity, leaving students vulnerable to the rising temperatures.

Climate Change’s Impact: Health and Education Strain in South Sudan

South Sudan faces significant challenges due to climate change, including extreme heatwaves and flooding during the rainy season. On Thursday, Environment Minister Josephine Napwon Cosmos urged residents to stay indoors and stay hydrated, as temperatures were expected to climb as high as 42°C. She also recommended that government workers operate in shifts to prevent heat strokes.

Education Workers Suggest Changes to School Calendar

In response to the ongoing heatwave, South Sudan’s education officials have urged the government to reconsider the academic calendar. They suggest closing schools during the extreme heat in February and resuming in April when temperatures are more manageable. Abraham Kuol Nyuon, Dean of the Graduate College at the University of Juba, argued that the school calendar should be tailored to local climate conditions across the country’s 10 states.

Criticism of Government’s Lack of Planning During Heatwaves

A civil society group, Integrity South Sudan, has criticized the government for failing to adequately plan for extreme weather events. The group states that shutting down schools during a heatwave reflects a lack of prioritization in ensuring access to education for South Sudan’s children.

Challenges for South Sudan’s Health and Education Systems

South Sudan’s health system remains fragile due to political instability and conflict. Between 2013 and 2018, nearly 400,000 people lost their lives in a civil war, adding additional stress to an already struggling healthcare system. The country’s economic situation has also worsened, with elections postponed and oil exports interrupted after a pipeline in neighboring Sudan was damaged. While the pipeline has since been repaired, the nation continues to grapple with severe financial challenges.