Amid persistent gang violence and uncertainty ahead of upcoming general elections, Haitian children and youth have begun the new school year with the support of the Catholic Church. The ongoing climate of insecurity has severely impacted the country’s education system, forcing many schools—particularly in the capital, Port-au-Prince, where criminal groups control vast areas—to delay opening their doors.
Despite these difficult circumstances, efforts are underway to maintain educational routines where possible. Fr. Massimo Miraglio, a Camillian missionary and parish priest of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, highlighted that staff and students turned out in large numbers at the Pourcine-Pic Makaya parish school after days of preparation to meet the schedule set by the Ministry of Education. While acknowledging that the school building remains precarious, he emphasized the parish’s commitment to standing by families and students.
The challenges facing local communities extend beyond security concerns, as a severe drought has destroyed a significant portion of crops, further complicating daily life. Fr. Miraglio stressed that investing in education remains essential for laying the foundation of a better future and yielding positive long-term results for the community. The educational restart comes alongside broader national developments, as Haiti prepares for its first presidential and legislative elections in a decade, scheduled for December and February.