In the town of Zuénoula, Côte d'Ivoire, a historic site has undergone a remarkable transformation. The former colonial prison, which once held detainees, has been converted into a thriving primary school, EPP Zuénoula 4. The school's unique past was celebrated on September 19, 2026, during a ceremony marking the rehabilitation of its buildings. The event was attended by local authorities, educators, and former students.
According to Silué Mamadou, former director of the school, the buildings that now house EPP Zuénoula 4 were once used as a regional detention center during the colonial era. Notably, the site is said to have held Zokou Gbéuli, an opponent of French colonization in Côte d'Ivoire, who reportedly died there. Some of the old prison cells have been repurposed as classrooms and school spaces. When Mamadou took over as director in 2007, remnants of the prison's past were still visible, including inscriptions on the walls bearing the names of former detainees.
The school's history dates back to its humble beginnings with just three classes. Over the years, successive generations of teachers and former students have contributed to its growth and development. Mamadou expressed his wish for the site's history to be further preserved and highlighted, potentially through the creation of a memorial or museum. This would help to raise awareness about the site's significance and ensure its history is not forgotten.
Carine Aka, vice-president of JustaBook and a former student of EPP Zuénoula 4, emphasized the emotional attachment that former students have to the school. For them, it represents a part of their history. Aka, who attended the school from 1996 to 2002, returned years later to contribute to its rehabilitation. The renovation work included repairs to the floors, walls, and sanitary facilities, as well as painting and installing new blackboards.
The rehabilitation of EPP Zuénoula 4 was made possible through a collaboration between JustaBook and the collective of former students. The project aimed to create a conducive learning environment for the students. The school's current director, N'Cho née Kouamé Ahou, expressed her gratitude to the donors and former students for their efforts. The rehabilitation work has provided the students with improved facilities, including six renovated classrooms and new latrines.
The ceremony marking the rehabilitation of the school featured a visit to the renovated facilities, as well as artistic performances, including traditional dances and sketches. The event also included the distribution of gifts to the students. Local education officials, including Inspector Soro Yaya, welcomed the initiative, highlighting its potential to enhance the learning experience for the students.
Today, EPP Zuénoula 4 stands as a testament to the power of transformation and the importance of preserving historical sites. As a former colonial prison turned primary school, it serves as a reminder of the region's complex history. The school's former students, who have contributed to its rehabilitation, hope to continue preserving its memory for future generations.
Key points
- Former colonial prison turned into primary school in Côte d'Ivoire's Zuénoula
- Rehabilitation project aimed to create a conducive learning environment for students
- Site's history dates back to colonial era, with remnants of old prison cells still visible
