Kegalle District schools, with a couple of exceptions, re-open for classes

Students affected by floods and landslides in the Kegalle District have returned to their schools, while one school is faced with the threat of a landslide, officials said.

Kegalle District Secretary W.M. Abeywikrama Wanasooriya said the students have received uniforms, exercise books and shoes, most of which was purchased from public donations and other schools.

He said that the authorities have gone so far as to provide bus fares to those in need of it.

However, two schools in the area- the Belihulwana Primary school and the primary of Vathura Sri Lanka have been shifted to temporary locations due to risk of landslides, with classes held as usual.

Another school in the Kegalle Zone, Hathnagoda Primary school was informed by the Galigamuva Pradeshiya Lekam that the area is at high risk of landslides.

The Kegalle Zonal Director of Education, N. Sirisena confirmed the ministry will be taking steps to direct students of Hathnagoda Primary school to other schools in the area, with the approval of parents and relevant officials of the school.

The Zonal Director of Education for Dehiowita, Gamini Rajadasa said that all schools in the Dehiowita Zone have reopened and students allowed relief to attend school without their specific uniforms.

He said the Chief Minister of Sabaragamuwa Province, Mahipala Herath confirmed the provision of shoes for which the relevant requirements have been submitted to the minister’s office already.

He also said that UNICEF has agreed to provide funds to repair school buildings, while a private company intends to donate 60 x 1,000 litre water tanks for schools in the area.

The National Child Protection Authority (NCPA) conducted a leaflet campaign to encourage parents to send children to school regardless of the lack of essentials, as the Education Ministry is taking steps to provide these utilities.

The mental health of the affected children are also being considered as the NCPA Spokesman, Ediriveera Gunasekara said it is taking steps to ensure the mental health of affected children via schools and in the remaining relief camps such as Aranayake.