In the town of Kouka, located in the Batha-Ouest department, concerns about school enrollment are mounting as the new academic year approaches. On September 28, 2026, local leaders and residents met with the department's prefect, Hissein Palet Baimokréo, to discuss ways to motivate families to register and retain their children in school. This gathering was part of the second edition of the "One Child, One Student" campaign, aimed at increasing community involvement in children's education.
The meeting highlighted several challenges faced by families, including economic difficulties exacerbated by poor rainfall in some areas. These factors can hinder children's access to education, participants noted. In response, Prefect Baimokréo urged local residents, leaders, and parents to join forces to address the issue. He emphasized that school enrollment should not solely rely on government efforts but also require commitment from families and the broader community.
The prefect stressed the importance of continued awareness campaigns in rural villages to identify primary obstacles and find tailored solutions. Local leaders from Kouka presented their concerns and proposed measures to support families and educational initiatives. The campaign in Kouka follows similar efforts in the Salamat and Médégo cantons, aiming to make school enrollment a shared responsibility among families, communities, and local leaders.
The "One Child, One Student" campaign seeks to enhance community engagement in education. By engaging with local populations, authorities hope to address specific challenges and encourage families to prioritize education. The initiative acknowledges that government efforts alone are insufficient to tackle the complex issues surrounding school enrollment.
Prefect Baimokréo and local leaders discussed potential strategies to support families struggling to enroll their children. These may include economic support, infrastructure development, or educational programs tailored to local needs. The campaign's success will depend on the collaboration and commitment of all stakeholders involved.
Education officials and local leaders recognize that poverty and economic hardship are significant barriers to education in the region. To overcome these challenges, a multi-faceted approach is required, involving government agencies, community organizations, and local residents. The Batha-Ouest region's education sector faces significant hurdles, but the "One Child, One Student" campaign offers a promising approach.
As the new academic year begins, the people of Kouka and surrounding areas are working together to address the region's educational challenges. The campaign's impact will be closely monitored, and its success could serve as a model for other regions facing similar issues. Three key points have emerged from the initiative so far:
Key points
- The "One Child, One Student" campaign aims to increase community involvement in education.
- Economic difficulties and poor rainfall are significant barriers to school enrollment in the region.
- Local leaders and residents are working together to find solutions to the region's educational challenges.
