Burundi Government Upholds Expulsion of Seven Students Despite Public Backlash

Burundi’s Ministry of Education has reaffirmed the permanent expulsion of seven students from Busiga Secondary School in Ngozi Province, a decision that has sparked significant controversy. In an official letter issued earlier this month, Minister François Havyarimana addressed ACOPA Burundi, a local human rights group advocating for the students’ reinstatement, affirming that the expulsion was “effective and just.”

The seven students were expelled after being caught on the night of September 21, accused of picking avocados from the school grounds and attempting to bribe school authorities. In the letter, Minister Havyarimana clarified that no appeals had been made to either administrative or ministerial authorities to challenge the decision.

The Minister confirmed that a team of inspectors had visited the school to ensure that the disciplinary measures were in line with the school’s regulations. Some students and their parents reportedly acknowledged the wrongdoing and agreed that the punishment was fair. “The children you are advocating for have not requested a review of the sentence,” Minister Havyarimana wrote, adding that the affected students and their families, as well as the school community, had expressed support for the disciplinary action.

Despite the criticism, the Minister emphasized that the expulsion decision remains in effect due to the current stage of the school year, the importance of maintaining discipline, and adherence to regulatory guidelines. However, he confirmed that the expelled students would be allowed to return to school during the 2025-2026 academic year, in accordance with the school’s regulations.

The decision has drawn widespread condemnation from human rights organizations. ACOPA-Burundi, which initially criticized the expulsion as “discriminatory and dangerous,” argued that the students could face gender-based violence due to the expulsion. Public outcry also grew, with several prominent rights groups and government officials denouncing the move as unlawful.

David Ninganza, head of the children’s rights group SOJEPAE, told Breaking Burundi that they would seek justice if the students were forced to miss an entire school year due to the expulsion. The case continues to fuel a national debate on student discipline and the role of the Ministry of Education in such decisions.