February 20, 2023 | Nyabihanga, Mwaro Province
On December 2, 2022, Iteriteka Ariella, a fifth-year student at Gasenyi Fundamental School, was struck in the eye by her teacher, Maria Ndereyabandi. Since the incident, the girl’s condition has worsened, with no proper medical care offered. A photo reveals the severity of the injury.
Witnesses at the school say the teacher initially tried to hide after the incident. Days later, she told the girl’s father to take his daughter to a hospital and promised to cover the expenses upon receiving the invoices.
Medical records obtained by King Umurundi Freedom show Ariella was first examined at the Eye Clinic in Bujumbura and then referred to Kira Hospital / Swiss Clinic. There, a doctor advised transferring her to Kibuye Hospital in Bukirasazi, Gitega Province, estimating the treatment cost at 1.6 million FBu.
Faced with the cost, the teacher changed her stance. She instructed the parent to go alone with the child. Once at the hospital, Maria denied her responsibility for the injury and refused to pay any fees. “Do whatever you want,” she reportedly told the family.
Unfortunately, this is not an isolated case.
Residents of Kivomwa, where the school is located, confirm that teacher Maria Ndereyabandi has been repeatedly accused of abusing her students. Local authorities and parents are calling for accountability and justice for the victim.