Iraq: Education hampered by sectarian violence, say officials

[sabra]

http://www.alertnet.org/thenews/newsdesk/IRIN/0c85cee1eaa279e035629ffeced3a894.htm

IRAQ: Education hampered by sectarian violence, say officials


BAGHDAD, 3 April (IRIN) - Children's education is being severely affected by ongoing sectarian violence, say officials at the Ministry of Education.

"Teachers have informed us that a high percentage of students aren't attending class, especially primary schools students," said senior ministry official Sarah Obeid. "The main reason for this is their families' fears due to the increase of sectarian violence."

According to Obeid, at least 30 percent of Iraqi students are not attending school, with the situation much worse in districts of the capital, Baghdad, where violence has been most in evidence. "The violence between Sunnis and Shi'ites is affecting innocent children," Obeid added.

Some parents have also noted growing discrimination in schools along sectarian lines. "Some teachers were treating my two sons very badly," said Abu Muhammad, a father of two, who recently removed his children from the school in question.

Others claim that some teachers are biased against students from certain ethnic or religious backgrounds. "My daughter's been the best student in her school for seven years," said Um Kareem, the mother of a primary school student in Baghdad. "But a month ago, two teachers began giving her very bad marks and complaining she wasn't studying. But when she brings her exams home, I see they're correct."

[LynnTheDem]

1. But a couple schools got painted!

Don't forget the painted schools!

:eyes: