Picture of neglect: Govt school in Swat reels under disrepair

Students compelled to sit on floor; MPA assures facilities are being improved

MINGORA: A government-run primary school in Segram village in Kabal tehsil, Swat is in a state of disrepair as it lacks facilities and space to accommodate students.

The institute was constructed in Segram three decades ago to cater to the needs of children in the village. Although many years have passed since the school was established, the single-storey building – which has only three rooms – lacks the capacity to provide as many as 300 students from six grades with quality education.

Muhammad Khan, a student of class two, told The Express Tribune, he cannot concentrate on his studies during classes.

“There are students of other grades studying in the same room,” he said. “The condition worsens during heavy rain when students of the entire school are accommodated in just three rooms.”

He added it is impossible for him to learn under such circumstances.

Ahmad Zada, a third grader, echoed similar sentiments.

“Our school building lacks well-furnished classrooms and playground for recreational entertainment,” he said. “We never use the washroom as they are in a deplorable condition. There is also a scarcity of clean drinking water.”

Barriers to learning

Hamidullah, a schoolteacher, also drew attention to the plight of students. “Forcing students of different grades to get education in one room is tantamount to wasting their time,” he said. “Due to the lack of space and rooms in the school building, we have accommodated more than 100 students in a single room.”

According to Hamidullah, three teachers give lectures in one classroom at a time which creates disturbance and students are unable to learn under such conditions.

He said chairs are not available for students and they are compelled to sit on the floor.

“The condition in winter season becomes unbearable as sitting on the floor adds to the discomfort of students,” Hamidullah added.

Official narrative

When contacted, MPA Muhibullah Khan told The Express Tribune steps are being taken to improve facilities at the school building. He added new classrooms will also be built on the premises.

“Negligence will not be tolerated,” he said. “Funds will be provided to build new rooms and equip the school with facilities.”

Published in The Express Tribune, September 18^th, 2016.