Children in Uganda have expressed their joy at finally returning to school nearly two years after they were closed because of Covid.
“I am really excited because it’s been a long time without seeing our teachers. And we have missed out a lot,” Joel Tumusiime told the BBC.
“I am glad to be back at school,” echoed another, Mercy Angel Kebirungi.
But after one of the world’s longest school closures, authorities warned at least 30% of students may never return.
Some have started work, while others have become pregnant or married early, the country’s national planning authority said.
Many Ugandan children have not been to school for almost two years.
"I am really excited because it's been a long time without seeing our teachers," Joel Tumusiime told the BBC.
But authorities warn that at least 30% of pupils may not return.https://t.co/JGI3yvU6kA
— BBC News Africa (@BBCAfrica) January 10, 2022