It is extremely disheartening to learn that at least 1,500 children lost access to education when 20 of their learning facilities were destroyed in a fire at a Rohingya camp in Ukhiya upazila of Cox's Bazar on Saturday night, with about 5,000 Rohingya refugees including 3,500 children losing their homes as well.
While the fact that no lives were lost is a positive, the fact remains that fires continue to ravage these camps at an alarmingly frequent rate, exacerbating the already dire situation.
The need to minimize fires and property damage is paramount for the safety and security of the displaced population. Adequate measures must be implemented to prevent and control fires, including proper infrastructure development, fire safety awareness campaigns, and effective emergency response mechanisms.
In addition, the plight of Rohingya children remains a pressing concern that demands our immediate attention. The importance of providing education to these children cannot be overstated, as it not only empowers them with knowledge but also serves as a beacon of hope for a brighter future.
These children are vulnerable to a life without formal education through no fault of their own. Providing an education could become their lifeline, offering these young minds a chance to break the cycle of poverty and uncertainty eventually.
While addressing the immediate challenges, it is essential to recognize that repatriation remains the ultimate solution to the Rohingya crisis. Sustainable repatriation efforts, coupled with ongoing support for education and infrastructure development, is the only way for a more stable and hopeful future for the Rohingya community.
Prioritizing education for Rohingya children shows our humanity; it is how we can collectively work towards a future where every child has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
