Students at risk as Bhola school field turns into reservoir

The field of Uttar Char Aicha Government Primary School in Bola's Char fesson upazila has become a vast expanse of water due to continuous rainfall over the past few days.  Instead of the joyful noise of children playing, the school ground now resembles a large reservoir. This has severely obstructed students' daily commute and movement within the school premises. 

While classes are still being held, the condition of the school field has left students feeling trapped. The accumulated water has not only disrupted the learning environment but also put the young students at significant risk. 

On Monday, a visit to Ward No. 8 of Rasulpur union revealed that the school field and the access road were completely submerged, causing severe waterlogging. 

Students were seen wading through knee-deep water to get to school, enduring significant hardship. The school has a total of 317 students, but due to the waterlogging, many young children are not attending. Currently, only 200 students are present.

Many parents are now afraid to send their children to school. The school also lacks a boundary wall. Guardians fear that if immediate action is not taken, it could negatively impact student attendance and their mental development.

Shahara, a fifth-grade student, said, "Even with a little rain, our school field becomes knee-deep in water. Last Thursday, my foot slipped while entering school and I fell into the water, ruining my books and notebooks. Many students like me have fallen in the water while coming to school. Because of the water, many have stopped coming."

Afrin, a fourth-grade student, said, "We have to walk through knee-deep water every day to get to school. Moreover, because of the water on the field, we can't play any games."

Rafiq Sikdar, a guardian, said, "I am always worried after sending my son to school, thinking he might fall into the water. Many other parents share the same concern. We, the parents, urge the higher authorities to fill the field immediately."

Sufia Begum, the headmistress of the school, said, "Students are not coming to school regularly because of the water. They have to walk through water to enter and exit the school. 

Many children have slipped and fallen, ruining their books and notebooks, which has led to a decrease in student attendance. I have informed Assistant Education Officer Shahadat Hossain, who is in charge of the school cluster, about the waterlogging. He has assured me that he will take action."

When contacted on his mobile phone, Upazila Assistant Education Officer Shahadat Hossain said, "I have come to Barisal for an urgent matter. The headmistress has informed me about the issue. I will visit the school."

Upazila Primary Education Officer Momijanur Rahman said, "I will discuss the matter with the higher authorities and prompt action will be taken."
Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Rasna Sharmin Mithy said, "Appropriate measures will be taken in this regard."