The case of young Joyce, the alleged victim of sexual assault, continues to spark outrage in Cameroon. In response to the controversy, the sub-prefect has justified the decision not to close the Olympic Glory School in Odza.
The administrative authority explained that the immediate closure of the school would negatively impact other students, especially during this examination period. "The school is open because, apart from your child [Joyce Nawal], there are other children. We are in the examination period. These children have done nothing to deserve being blocked from taking their exams," he said, according to reports relayed by Vision 4 Digital.
This case has mobilized many administrative and governmental authorities in Yaoundé. An administrative investigation committee has been set up by the regional delegate of Basic Education of the Centre to shed light on the facts. A crisis meeting, chaired by the Governor of the Centre region, Naseri Paul Bea, was held with administrative officials and the Minister of Women's Empowerment and the Family, Marie Thérèse Abena Ondoa.
Judicial and administrative investigations are ongoing. The authorities assure that they want to establish the facts precisely, while respecting the presumption of innocence. Public opinion remains very attentive to the evolution of this case, which raises crucial questions about child protection in Cameroon.
