Extreme Heat Forces School Closures in South Sudan, Highlighting Climate Crisis Impact

South Sudan has temporarily shut down schools for two weeks due to an intense heat wave, causing student health concerns. The country's educational infrastructure is ill-equipped for temperature extremes, and officials propose changes to school schedules. The persistent heat wave underscores broader climate and government planning challenges in South Sudan.

South Sudan has taken the drastic step of closing all its schools for two weeks as it grapples with an extreme heat wave. The soaring temperatures have resulted in student health scares, with Deputy Education Minister Martin Tako Moi reporting an average of 12 students collapsing daily in Juba city due to the heat.

The lack of adequate infrastructure in South Sudanese schools, comprised largely of iron-sheet constructs without electricity, exacerbates the situation. Environment Minister Josephine Napwon Cosmos has advised stays indoors and hydration as temperatures could hit 42 degrees Celsius. Meanwhile, there's pressure on the government to adapt school calendars to the climatic conditions to minimize disruptions.

The education crisis is part of broader systemic challenges facing South Sudan, including a fragile health system, a postponed election due to financial constraints, and a disrupted oil-based economy following pipeline issues in Sudan. Civil groups criticize the government's lack of foresight, calling for better planning to safeguard educational access amidst climate adversities.

(With inputs from agencies.)