The Impact of Mt. Kanlaon Eruptions on Students and Education in Negros
Mount Kanlaon, located on Negros Island in the Philippines, is one of the country's most active volcanoes. Its eruptions have historically impacted the lives of nearby communities, particularly students whose education is often disrupted. The recent eruptions in June and December 2024 have once again displaced thousands of students, highlighting the profound effects of volcanic activity on education in the region.
The Eruptions of 2024
In June 2024, Mount Kanlaon erupted explosively, sending ash plumes up to 5,000 meters above the vent and causing pyroclastic flows down its slopes. This event led to the evacuation of thousands of residents from the surrounding areas, including the cities of Canlaon and La Carlota, and the towns of La Castellana and Bago. The eruption resulted in significant ashfall, affecting air quality and visibility, and prompting the closure of schools and government offices.
A second eruption occurred in December 2024, producing a 3-kilometer-high plume of hot ash and gases. This eruption led to the evacuation of approximately 87,000 people from villages around Mount Kanlaon. The ashfall affected regions as far as Antique province, causing visibility and health concerns. Authorities closed schools, imposed a nighttime curfew, and raised the danger level around the volcano due to increased risks of hazardous volcanic activity.
Impact on Students and Education
The eruptions have had a profound impact on students in the affected areas. In June 2024, the eruption forced at least 684 schools to close, affecting about 385,000 students. Nine schools were converted into evacuation centers, further disrupting education.
Similarly, the December 2024 eruption led to the displacement of thousands of students. In Canlaon City, Negros Oriental, the Department of Education reported that 15,487 learners from both public and private schools were affected. Among them, 152 learners, including four from the Alternative Learning System and nine Day Care students, were staying in evacuation centers.
The closure of schools and displacement of students have disrupted the academic calendar, leading to delays in lessons and examinations. The lack of access to educational facilities and resources has hindered students' learning experiences, potentially affecting their academic progress and well-being.
Government and Community Response
In response to the disruptions caused by the eruptions, the Department of Education (DepEd) developed emergency learning kits (ELKs) for public school students in Negros Occidental. These kits provided adjusted or lighter learning competencies to help students cope with their lessons during the evacuation period. Learners staying at home used modules, while those in evacuation centers engaged in blended learning, utilizing the ELKs and participating in periodic meetings with teachers.
Local government units (LGUs) also played a crucial role in supporting displaced students. In La Castellana, for instance, face-to-face classes resumed in schools outside the six-kilometer danger zone, while schools within the danger zone and those used as evacuation centers implemented modular and online learning modalities. This flexible approach aimed to ensure continuity in education while prioritizing the safety of students and educators.
Community organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have been instrumental in providing additional support. World Vision, for example, reported that lahars affected waterways and agricultural lands, and families were buying water for drinking and other essentials. The organization continues to monitor the situation and provide assistance to affected communities.
Challenges and Ongoing Needs
Despite these efforts, several challenges remain. The prolonged displacement of students has led to a loss of instructional time, which may affect learning outcomes. The psychological impact of the eruptions, including stress and trauma, has also been a concern, potentially affecting students' mental health and academic performance.
Additionally, the destruction of infrastructure, including schools and homes, has strained resources. The agricultural sector has suffered significant losses, affecting the livelihoods of many families and potentially leading to food insecurity. The need for sustainable solutions to rebuild communities and restore educational services is critical.
The eruptions of Mount Kanlaon in 2024 have underscored the vulnerability of students in volcanic regions. While immediate responses have been implemented to address the disruptions, long-term strategies are necessary to mitigate the impact of future volcanic events on education. This includes strengthening disaster preparedness, enhancing infrastructure resilience, and providing comprehensive support to affected students and their families. By addressing these challenges, communities can better safeguard the education and well-being of their students in the face of natural disasters.
