A 2002 attempted coup disrupted an already fragile education system in Africa’s Ivory Coast. The resulting civil war lasted until 2004, only to pick up again during the frenzied 2010 presidential election. The nation’s schools have had a difficult time getting back on track since. Many have not reopened since 2011, when a UNICEF news report suggested civil infighting could have long-term impacts. Talk about an understatement — and consider what's been left in the wake of a near-nonexistent educational system in that country.

Abidjan, the largest city in the Ivory Coast, is home to a disturbing trend of child gangs. These gangs are made up of children reported to be as young as 12 who become violent thieves without school to give them direction and something in which to be involved and active. The native adults dub these pickpockets “microbes,” using the French word for germs. Like germs, they spread across Abidjan and into other urbanized cities in Ivory Coast.

These child-run gangs have increased over the last two years. Their victims claim the Ivory Coast government has abandoned them. The president, Alassan Ouattara, blames the infighting caused by the aforementioned presidential elections. But finger-pointing accomplishes little.

Not only have child gangs led to an increase in the crime rate in Abidjan, participating children have even stabbed uncooperative adults. In mid-August, Larissa Claude Abony, a student, was allegedly killed by “microbes” as she waited at a bus station.

What’s particularly frightening is that adults in affected areas have suggested taking matter into their own hands if the government will not protect them. Threats go as far as killing for self-defense, if necessary. This cannot be the answer. Children cannot be held completely responsible for their actions; they are often the byproduct of negligent adults — or, even worse, their prey.

A portion of the adult population in Ivory Coast’s cities are involved in a disturbing custom — a popular tradition being the belief that human sacrifices will bring good luck to an individual. Since last December, at least 25 children have been kidnapped with connection to this practice. Interior Minister Hamed Bakayoko announced the recovery of “five mutilated children and 20 dead bodies.”

To compensate for this, Defense Minister Paul Koffi Koffi announced 1,000 arrests on Monday. Many of these arrests are on adults known as “grazers” — individuals who hang around Internet cafes, looking for ways to prey on unsuspecting children or hack into locals’ bank accounts.

A strong educational system with children consistently active and involved in school classes and activities is not a cure-all for child gangs and being preyed on by adults — but it's a strong starting point.

Education should be a more serious concern for Ivory Coast and other African countries in the region. Schools should provide a safe place for children during the day. Correct curriculum from trained educators could put a stop to harmful practices and beliefs, and steer the next generation of Ivory Coast’s leaders in the right direction.