Alikadam: The private educational institution in the remote hilly region of Nayapara Union under Alikadam Upazila of the Bandarban Hills, known as 'Sakhlanpara Private Primary School', is set to resume its academic activities soon. Over 50 children from distant areas are enrolled here, but the school building completely collapsed in early July due to persistent heavy rainfall, halting the school's operations.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, a local student leader raised the issue with the Prime Minister's Office (PMO). Prompt action was taken, and a new building is currently under construction at a cost of Tk 10 lakh. The completion of the new school building is expected this month, allowing the 'school bell' to ring once again in the remote hills.
Local guardians have expressed their gratitude for the initiative taken by the Prime Minister's Office. Chai Hla Mong Marma, a resident of Nayapara, shared his relief and optimism, stating that the school was destroyed by the rain, disrupting the education of their children. He expressed surprise and encouragement at the government's swift action to rebuild the school.
The Sakhalanpara Private Primary School, situated in the remote hilly area of Ward No. 8 in Nayapara Union, was founded in 2022. Along with education, the school also had a residential facility, which was damaged during the heavy rainfall. The school currently accommodates approximately 50-60 students and employs two teachers.
One of the school's founders revealed that after the destruction, the issue was communicated to Alikadam Upazila Chhatra Dal convener Md. Nurul Shafa, who informed the Prime Minister. The Prime Minister's Special Assistant, Md. Syed Bin Abdullah (Syed Abdullah), was promptly contacted and initiated efforts to address the issue swiftly.
Following the Prime Minister's directive, the Alikadam Upazila administration, via the Bandarban Deputy Commissioner, took charge. The reconstruction is being supervised by Alikadam Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md. Manjur Alam. The estimated cost for rebuilding the school and hostel is around Tk 10 lakh, with construction commencing on July 23 and 20 percent of the work completed. The design will reflect hill architecture.
Ismail Hasan, a social worker from Alikadam Upazila, noted the challenges of constructing educational facilities in remote hilly regions, especially after a natural disaster. However, the local community has regained composure as reconstruction efforts swiftly commenced due to administrative initiatives.
Md. Nurul Chafa emphasized that their aim was not political recognition but ensuring education for students in remote areas. The rebuilding transcends mere construction; it's about safeguarding the future of an entire generation. He expressed gratitude to the Special Assistant to the Prime Minister and the Prime Minister for their prompt actions.
School principal Gordon Tripura remarked on the disruption caused by the school's collapse during heavy rainfall last month and expressed gratitude for the government's swift rebuilding process. Para Karbari Damloy Murung highlighted the school's importance as the only educational institution for boys and girls in the area and its symbolic significance in reviving children's aspirations.
Alikadam Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md. Manjur Alam assured that their objective is to ensure the construction is completed with high quality within the designated timeframe, providing a conducive learning environment for the students as soon as possible.