In Mahapleu , a small town in western Ivory Coast , an incident at a private primary school has deeply shaken the community. The punishment inflicted on a 7-year-old child has sparked outrage and created a climate of tension rarely seen in this usually peaceful area.

According to several local accounts, the punishment inflicted on the student was deemed disproportionate and unacceptable by many parents. The news spread quickly throughout the village, sparking anger, incomprehension, and concern. For many, the school, meant to be a place of protection and learning, had failed in its fundamental mission: to safeguard the physical and moral well-being of the child.

Faced with rising tensions, parents went to the school to demand answers. The atmosphere became electric, forcing local authorities and community leaders to intervene to prevent any escalation. Thanks to mediation, calm gradually returned, although emotions remain high.

On the school administration's side, dialogue has been initiated with the family of the student involved, and commitments have been made to de-escalate the situation. But beyond this specific incident, a broader issue arises in Mahapleu: that of the disciplinary methods still practiced in some schools and the effective respect for children's rights.

Today, parents and residents are calling for non-violent educational sanctions , better oversight of private schools, and increased vigilance from the authorities. In Mahapleu, this painful episode could well serve as a wake-up call, reminding everyone that education cannot be built on fear or violence, but on trust and kindness.