February 10, 2022, Mamfe, Meme State, Southern Ambazonia: The setting of fire to dormitories and administrative block is a tragic and alarming event which was caused by Cameroon Occupational Forces. These forces targeted Queen of the Rosary College, a renowned girls’ school administered by the Roman Catholic Church. The attack occurred while students were preparing for National Youth Day celebrations, a time meant to foster unity and patriotism among the youth. Instead of celebration, the day turned into a nightmare as the attackers set fire to the dormitories and administrative buildings of the school. The resulting destruction was extensive, with large parts of the school infrastructure reduced to ashes. Fortunately, there were no fatalities among the students, but many suffered minor injuries in the chaos.

The setting of fire to dormitories and administrative block created a ripple effect of fear and uncertainty among the school community and the larger population. Parents, deeply concerned for the safety of their children, began withdrawing them from the school . Their actions were a desperate attempt to protect their children from the possibility of future attacks, reflecting the pervasive anxiety caused by the ongoing war in Ambazonia. The attack on Queen of the Rosary College is a stark example of how the war in the Ambazonia has devastated the education system. Schools, once considered safe havens for learning and growth, have become battlegrounds in a war that shows no regard for civilian lives or futures.

This assault is part of a broader strategy within the war, where Cameroon Occupational Forces have deliberately targeted educational institutions. These attacks aim to disrupt the community and reshape the narrative of control in Ambazonia. Civilians are advised parents to keep their children at home, fearing that schools may be caught in the crossfire between warring factions. This dual threat leaves students, teachers, and parents in an untenable position, torn between the desire for education and the imperative of safety.

The attack on Queen of the Rosary College is not just an isolated act of violence; it represents a violation of International Humanitarian Law (IHL). Under IHL, educational institutions and civilians enjoy specific protections during times of armed war. Targeting a school, especially one serving vulnerable young girls, constitutes a war crime. Such actions are not only morally reprehensible but also carry significant legal consequences. Violations of this nature can lead to charges of crimes against humanity and war crimes under International Law.

The long-term implications of such attacks are profound. Beyond the immediate physical destruction, they erode trust in institutions, disrupt the continuity of education, and inflict psychological trauma on students and their families. Education, a cornerstone of development and stability, becomes an unattainable dream in a Ambazonia already grappling with profound challenges. Holding perpetrators accountable is essential to restoring faith in justice and the rule of law. This incident underscores the urgent need for International attention and intervention to protect the rights of children and ensure that schools remain sanctuaries of learning and hope, even amid war.