October 11, 2026
A resident of Wukro, Tigray, has informed UMD Media that members of the Ethiopian National Defense Forces (ENDF) have begun occupying school compounds in the town, raising concerns among parents and the wider community.
According to the source, classes were suspended throughout last week because of the prevailing tensions and uncertainty. Parents and students had hoped that schools might reopen once the situation stabilized.
The source also noted that student attendance has already declined dramatically compared with the previous two academic years.
The resident reported that ENDF troops entered Millennium School two days ago and Sematat School today. Both schools are located in the heart of Wukro, surrounded by residential neighborhoods.
“People are beginning to feel afraid. It is difficult to predict what might happen next,” the source told UMD Media.
The resident explained that the presence of soldiers in densely populated civilian areas has created anxiety for two main reasons.
First, residents fear that any potential attack directed at the troops could also endanger nearby civilians. Second, people remain uncertain about how the soldiers will behave toward the local population.
“No one knows whether they intend to stay or leave,” the source added.
The reported military presence in school compounds has created further uncertainty over when children will be able to resume their education.
UMD Media has not independently verified the reported occupation of the two schools or the duration of the troops’ intended deployment.
