In a heartbreaking incident in the Central African Republic, 29 students tragically died and over 280 were injured after a crush erupted during school exams, triggered by an explosion.
Tragedy Strikes as Explosion Causes Fatal Crush Among Exam-Taking Students in Central Africa
Tragedy Strikes as Explosion Causes Fatal Crush Among Exam-Taking Students in Central Africa
29 students lose their lives in a panic-induced stampede following a blast during finals
The devastating event occurred during the high-school finals in Bangui on Wednesday. An explosion, reportedly from an electricity transformer that was undergoing repairs, sent shockwaves through a school hosting approximately 6,000 students taking the baccalaureate exams. Abel Assaye, director of the Bangui community hospital, confirmed the fatalities to BBC News.
Witnesses recount the chaos that ensued when the sound of the blast and the ensuing smoke caused widespread panic among the students. President Faustin-Archange Touadéra has expressed his sorrow over the incident, announcing a national mourning period. His administration will also provide free medical treatment to those injured in the stampede.
Students from five schools had gathered at the Lycée Barthélémy Boganda for their exams when the explosion occurred. Following the blast, the Ministry of Education informed that all remaining exams would be suspended in light of the tragedy.
Survivors detailed their harrowing experiences to the media. One female student recalled the moment of panic, describing how she fell into confusion upon hearing the explosion and has since suffered from physical pain. Another student, covered in blood after managing to escape through a window, shared that many were unable to exit due to the narrow doors as chaos ensued.
As Central Africa continues to struggle with political and security challenges, this tragic event sheds light on the urgent need for enhanced safety measures in schools. The local community mourns the loss of young lives while grappling with the implications of such a catastrophic event amidst ongoing governmental strife.
Witnesses recount the chaos that ensued when the sound of the blast and the ensuing smoke caused widespread panic among the students. President Faustin-Archange Touadéra has expressed his sorrow over the incident, announcing a national mourning period. His administration will also provide free medical treatment to those injured in the stampede.
Students from five schools had gathered at the Lycée Barthélémy Boganda for their exams when the explosion occurred. Following the blast, the Ministry of Education informed that all remaining exams would be suspended in light of the tragedy.
Survivors detailed their harrowing experiences to the media. One female student recalled the moment of panic, describing how she fell into confusion upon hearing the explosion and has since suffered from physical pain. Another student, covered in blood after managing to escape through a window, shared that many were unable to exit due to the narrow doors as chaos ensued.
As Central Africa continues to struggle with political and security challenges, this tragic event sheds light on the urgent need for enhanced safety measures in schools. The local community mourns the loss of young lives while grappling with the implications of such a catastrophic event amidst ongoing governmental strife.
