The École Internationale de Gitega (EIG) is experiencing its most severe crisis in 43 years, following a closure order issued by authorities. This unprecedented situation marks a critical juncture for an institution that has provided 43 years of service to the community. The crisis began with a request for accreditation for the mathematics statistics section, initiated by the school's legal representative. However, instead of an agreement for this accreditation request, a closure order was delivered, catching the school and its community by surprise. Parents and users of the institution are vehemently contesting the Ministry's claims regarding the situation. They recall the school's inauguration by the Minister, which took place with local and provincial authorities present, suggesting official recognition at that time and raising questions about the sudden change in stance.
Ministry's Justification and School's Rebuttal
The Ministry of Education cited the absence of a legal framework governing the school's operation as its stated reason for closure. This assertion forms the core of the government's justification for the drastic measure. Additionally, the Ministry claimed the establishment occupies state buildings without a lease agreement, implying an unauthorized use of public property. These two points constitute the primary official grounds for the closure order.
In response, Gitega International School asserted it had provided all requested documents, including the property title and establishment accreditation, indicating its compliance with administrative requirements. The school further noted that its infrastructure was financed through contributions from parents and the Agence burundaise pour la Réalisation des travaux d’Intérêt public (Abutip). This financing structure shows the community's investment in the institution and challenges the notion of the school operating without proper foundation or support. The parents and users of the institution specifically contest the Ministry's claims, pointing to the historical context of the school's establishment and its long-standing operation.
Impact on Operations and Community
The immediate repercussions of the closure order have been severe for the school's operations and its dedicated staff. The school's bank accounts have been frozen, a measure that has directly led to the suspension of salary payments for staff, creating significant financial hardship for many families. This financial paralysis threatens the livelihoods of those who contribute to the school's esteemed educational environment.
An emergency meeting of parents was convened on July 3, 2026, to discuss the unfolding situation and strategize a collective response. During this meeting, the gravity of the crisis and its potential long-term effects on the students and the community were thoroughly discussed. In response, several families have initiated a petition to the Prime Minister's office, requesting an immediate suspension of the closure measure and the commencement of constructive dialogue to find a resolution. This petition notes the community's desire for a peaceful and diplomatic solution rather than an abrupt shutdown. The school committee is currently considering legal action as a potential recourse, exploring all available avenues to challenge the Ministry's decision and protect the institution's future. Gitega International School (EIG) is widely considered one of the best educational establishments in the country for its quality of teaching, making its potential closure a significant loss to the national education landscape.
Suspicions of Ulterior Motives
The crisis at Gitega International School, which began with a seemingly routine request for accreditation of its mathematics statistics section, has escalated into a complex and contentious dispute. The school's current predicament has led to widespread fears among the community of an attempted dispossession by high-ranking personalities, noting the institution had been coveted in the past. These suspicions suggest that the official reasons for closure might mask deeper, more self-serving motivations. The community's apprehension stems from the school's reputation and its valuable assets, fueling concerns that powerful individuals may be attempting to seize control. The situation is presently awaiting arbitration from the President of the Republic to resolve the dispute, with the hope that a higher authority can bring an impartial and just resolution to this critical matter.