Dozens Die in School Stampede
A chaotic situation erupted at a high school in Bangui following an electrical transformer explosion, coinciding with the influx of thousands of students for their baccalaureate exams. This unfortunate incident led to the deaths of many students and left numerous others injured.
As reported by officials on Thursday, at least 29 students lost their lives during the stampede that occurred while over 5,300 pupils were sitting for their exams at Barthelemy Boganda High School in Bangui on Wednesday.
The explosion instigated widespread panic, resulting in a frantic rush where some students were observed jumping from the first floor of the building.
The Health Ministry indicated that most of the victims, including 16 girls, died at the site. In addition, more than 260 other students needed medical care due to their injuries.
An official from the Health Ministry informed AFP news agency that “the hospital was overwhelmed with patients to such an extent that it obstructed medical staff and ambulances.”
President Declares Three-Day Mourning Period
In light of this tragic event, while attending a vaccine summit in Brussels, President Faustin Archange Touadera announced a three-day national mourning period.
“I extend my heartfelt condolences and solidarity to the families of those who lost their lives, as well as to teachers and fellow students,” he expressed in a video posted on Facebook.
Moreover, Education Minister Aurelien-Simplice Kongbelet-Zingas stated that “immediate actions will be taken to investigate the circumstances surrounding this tragic incident.”
He also noted that a specific date would be announced later for students to resume their examinations.
