IDP children growing without education in Taraba state- Undu

By Yagana Ali Yola 

A prominent stakeholder in Taraba state,  Chief Joseph Saater Undu  has lamented that thousands of children in the State’s internally displaced person (IDP) camps are growing up without access to education, perpetuating a cycle of trauma, ignorance, and despair. 

He noted that these displaced children, due to ethnic conflicts, are forced to work instead of attending school.

Undu who made this known while speaking to newsmen in the state lamented that one of the IDP’s, Terseer Mtomga, a fourteen years child, dreamed of becoming a doctor but is instead fetching firewood and hawking goods. 

He stressed further that hundreds of other children in similar situations are denied their right to education.

Herdsmen Killings: Och’idoma tells herders to vacate his domain 

Taraba State’s free education policy has not reached IDP children. Despite the policy’s benefits in public schools, IDP camps remain excluded.

“The neglect of IDP children poses significant risks. Chief Joseph Saater Undu warns of an “angry generation” that could become a threat to societal stability if their plight is not addressed.

“To break this cycle, the government must consider inclusive solutions, such as: Extending the free education policy to IDP camps. Establishing temporary learning centers within IDP camps and providing psychological support to help IDP children overcome trauma.

“By addressing the educational needs of IDP children, the government can help promote a brighter future for these children and the state’ he stated.