Schools in Van had been closed since October 23 when the first of two major earthquakes hit the region.

Class bells rang again today at some schools, tents and containers in the city. Desks however remained empty at most of the schools which provided education in tents in gardens. 

While 73 schools haven’t been opened to service due to heavy damage, students have today started to go to schools in the few safe buildings or containers and tents. Among 181 thousand student population of the city, 70 thousand have been sent to other provinces, according to official figures. However, the remaining 111 thousand students couldn’t be seen at schools today.

Although at least 650 students were expected to show up at İrfan Baştuğ Elementary School, the number of students who went to the school was only 50.

Van was hit by two major earthquakes in October. Over 600 people died while many were injured. Thousands left the region, migrating to other cities.

ANF / VAN

ANF NEWS AGENCY