Insecurity shuts 23 schools in Paktia

GARDEZ (PAN): Twenty-three schools have been closed due to insecurity and a shortage of trained teachers in southeastern Paktia province, an official said on Wednesday.

Deputy Director of Education Islamuddin Mangal told Pajhwok Afghan News the schools in remote districts had also been faced with other problems.

Calling insecurity a huge challenge, the official deplored lack of cooperation from area residents, and hence the students’ plight that resulted from the closure.

Despite hectic efforts by the authorities to overcome the situation, some schools in Zazai Aryub, Khwak and Garda Serai districts stayed shut, he added.

While Mangal complained of non-cooperation from the public, residents of far-flung districts accused local officials of ignoring the education sector.

Sabir, a student at the Roqiano School in Zazai Aryub district, said neither teachers nor students attended classes. “Our school was closed after three watchmen were killed by gunmen who also warned teachers and students of dire consequences.”

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