Save the Children has developed a new play-based learning programme in the Democratic Republic of Congo to teach young children about Ebola using puppets, songs, games and musical activities. The initiative aims to help children as young as four understand the virus, counter misinformation and support families during one of the country’s most serious Ebola outbreaks.
The programme is being rolled out as fear, rumours and Ebola denial continue to affect communities. Misinformation has contributed to distrust in healthcare services, attacks on health workers and treatment centres, and declining school attendance in affected areas. Many parents are keeping children away from classrooms because of fears they may contract Ebola at school.
The outbreak, officially declared on 15 May, has affected hundreds of people and caused more than 200 deaths, including children. In Ituri, one of the worst-hit areas, teachers have reported that fear is spreading quickly among students, with some children missing school or hiding instead of attending classes.
Save the Children is working with the Education Cluster, local health authorities and education officials to support schools during the outbreak. New guidance has been launched for teachers and schools, especially as end-of-year exams take place, with measures including handwashing, screening at examination centre entrances and quick referral for Ebola-like symptoms.
Teachers trained by Save the Children are integrating Ebola awareness into daily school activities. Through child-friendly learning methods, students are being taught how the virus spreads, how to protect themselves and why treatment and prevention measures are important. The aim is to reduce fear while helping children become trusted messengers within their families and communities.
Save the Children has also provided 33 schools in Ituri with infection prevention and control kits. These include thermal scanners, handwashing devices, chlorine and hygiene supplies to help schools reduce the risk of Ebola exposure and maintain safer learning environments.
The organisation says Ebola is not only a health crisis but also an education and child wellbeing crisis. School closures, fear, stigma and misinformation can disrupt learning and increase stress among children. By using schools as safe spaces for awareness and prevention, the programme seeks to protect both health and education.
Community resistance remains a major challenge. Some families have refused home disinfection after suspected cases, while others have left isolation facilities. Save the Children says these reactions reflect fear, mistrust and limited understanding of Ebola prevention and treatment measures.
The new child-friendly Ebola awareness programme highlights the importance of clear, accessible and age-appropriate communication during health emergencies. By using puppets, songs and games, Save the Children is helping children understand difficult health messages in a way that feels familiar, engaging and less frightening.
The initiative shows how education can play a critical role in outbreak response. In the DRC, schools are being used not only to continue learning but also to fight misinformation, reduce stigma, promote prevention and help families make safer decisions during the Ebola crisis.
