Authorities in Sudan’s Red Sea State have suspended classes in all schools due to rising temperatures.
The Governor of the state, Mustafa Mohammad Nour, on Monday issued an order No. (38) of 2024, suspending studies in all schools, effective June 15 until September 15.
A Port Sudan resident, Umm Zain Saleh, told Radio Tamazuj that she believes that closing of schools was necessary. “I think that closing schools this summer would be better,” she added.
Saleh noted that electricity supply was unstable, in addition to the large numbers of students in classrooms.
Another resident, Nadir Tayib, described the order as a “right” decision, given the temperatures that reached 50 degrees.
“Some of our schools are not properly equipped with fans, air conditioners and even drinking water. This is a right decision which is in the interest of our children,” he said.
A student, Suzan Ali, said the decision would disrupt her academic year, but that it was important to protect the learners from the high temperatures.
“We have suffered before because of the war, and now because of the temperatures, but delaying studies is better than suffering from sunstroke, headaches, and fevers,” she explained.
A Port Sudan based journalist, Luai Ibrahim, told Radio Tamazuj that the decision was “important” and humane. “It would prevent our students from being exposed to heat.”
The hot season in Port Sudan lasts for 3.5 months, from May 31 to September 16, with an average daily temperature above 99°F. The hottest month is August, with an average high of 104°F and low of 87°F.