Students in Nsanje's Mpatsa Primary School Learn in Temporary Tents Amid Flood Displacement
Jussab Mintrozo, the headteacher of the institution, expressed the difficulties faced by over 2,200 learners who are currently studying in tents at the new location.
Nsanje, Malawi - Students at Mpatsa Primary School, located in the Mpatsa Education Zone in Nsanje, are enduring challenging conditions as they attend classes in tents, exposed to the scorching heat of the sun, writes Cornelius Lupenga.
The relocation to temporary sites became necessary after their school premises were submerged by floods earlier this year.
Jussab Mintrozo, the headteacher of the institution, expressed the difficulties faced by over 2,200 learners who are currently studying in tents at the new location.
Both the School Management Committee (SMC) and the Parents and Teachers Association (PTA) had no choice but to accept the temporary arrangement.
While the headteacher has been informed about the new site designated for the construction of the new Mpatsa Primary School and Resource Centre, he is uncertain about the reasons behind the delay in the construction of the school blocks.
Benjamin Msongera, Chair of the Area Development Committee (ADC) for Senior Chief Mbenje, echoed the headteacher's concerns and mentioned that the location for the new Mpatsa Primary School has been identified within Senior Chief Mbenje's jurisdiction.
They are awaiting authorities to proceed with the necessary tasks to create a conducive learning environment for the students.
Boniface Chimpokosera, Chair of the Education Committee for Nsanje, recently informed the District Full Council Meeting that compensation for landowners was the main obstacle delaying the construction of Mpatsa Primary School.
Over 8 hectares of land have already been identified for the project, pending construction.
Earlier this year, Chikondano Mussa, the Education Principal Secretary, visited the school to conduct an assessment and witnessed the inadequate infrastructure, emphasizing the urgent need for improved facilities.