Tragedy struck the Central African Republic on Wednesday when a stampede at Barthelemy Boganda High School in Bangui claimed the lives of at least 29 students. The disaster unfolded during final exams as an electrical explosion caused panic among more than 5,000 students gathered at the examination center.
According to the Education Ministry, a transformer in the main building exploded after electricity was restored by the national power company, ENERCA. Mistaking the loud blast for a building collapse, students fled in fear, triggering a deadly stampede.
Some medical sources report the death toll could be higher, with at least 31 students killed and many more seriously injured. The government has pledged to investigate the incident and ensure the exams proceed safely.
The nation is mourning one of the worst school-related tragedies in its recent history, as families, educators, and officials come to terms with the devastating loss.