Deadly Explosion Hits Bangui School During Exams, Killing at Least Ten Students
At least ten students were killed and dozens injured after a transformer exploded during national exams at a high school in Bangui, exposing critical infrastructure failures in the Central African Republic.
Emergency crews and families gather outside the Bangui school following the deadly explosion. Photo: @NotreAfrik
June 26, 2025 Hour: 6:27 am
A tragic explosion during national exams killed at least ten students and injured nearly 100 others at a high school in Bangui, the capital of the Central African Republic.
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The blast occurred at Barthélemy Boganda High School, where over 5,300 students were sitting for the baccalaureate exam. According to local reports, the explosion was triggered by a transformer located behind one of the school buildings. Technicians from the Central African Energy Agency (ENERCA) had reportedly carried out maintenance shortly before the incident.
Witnesses reported scenes of panic and horror as students scrambled for safety. “We were in the middle of the exam when we heard a loud explosion. Everyone started running in all directions. Several classmates fell and couldn’t get back up,” one student said. Some jumped from the first floor to escape the smoke and flames, resulting in bone fractures. Others were trampled in the chaos.
Hospitals in Bangui, including the Community Hospital, were overwhelmed with injured students and anxious relatives. Several patients had to be treated on the floor due to lack of space.
The explosion is raising questions about the country’s deteriorating infrastructure and lack of oversight in public institutions. Authorities have launched an investigation into the causes of the explosion, while families continue to seek answers and justice. A new date for postponed exams will be announced once conditions allow.
Author: MK
Source: TeleSUR
