KHARKUTTA, July 20: Continuing the saga of schools that torment those who use them, the Achik State People’s Front (ASPF) – Kharkutta in North Garo Hills (NGH) has highlighted another school that, despite being condemned, is still being used in the absence of an alternative.
In a complaint to the District Mission Coordinator (DMC) – NGH, the CSO, following a visit to the Nachirongdik Ad-Hoc LP School, has sought immediate assistance to rebuild the school, at least to a condition that can shelter children as they try to get an education.
“The entire structure is missing its roof and there is grass growing within the classes in the compound. There is no way studies can be undertaken in such inhumane conditions.
More than half the academic session is lost due to the condition as no classes can be held during the monsoon. Even without rain, children face torture from the blazing sun as there is only open sky above them,” stated unit president Stephen Marak.
The ASPF team visited the school on July 17.
According to locals, the school was damaged during a cyclonic storm last year, which tore off the entire roof. Currently, the nearby community hall in the village acts as the school as desperate students cram into the small structure.
Although the village has 56 households, the school still has over 50 students with two teachers.
The school is extremely remote, accessible only by motorcycles, scooters, and 4WD vehicles, making it crucial for villagers, as the next school is miles away. The village also has an upper primary school. “The villagers stated that they have approached the local MLA of Kharkutta, Rupert Momin, as well as the Chief Minister, Conrad Sangma, seeking help in re-establishing the school but have been left disappointed as nothing has come forth for the school till date.
“As concerned residents, we are deeply disappointed by the situation and seek your immediate intervention into the matter. The school is the pride of the people of the village and their dignity is now at stake,” added Marak.
