Heavy rains blow school roof

A DOWN POUR has blown off the roof of Chikonkwelo Secondary School in Kabompo forcing pupils to squat at a nearby church.

Kabompo District Commissioner Patrick Kasoka who visited the school yesterday with North Western Province Disaster Management and Mitigation unit (DMMU) Regional Coordinator, Paul Muyongo and District Education Board Secretary, Juma Phiri described the incident as unfortunate.

Mr Kasoka said the incident was unfortunate as the structure which was community led was the only standing building at the secondary school making it a major setback to the community and the leaners.

"It is sad and unfortunate that this has happened to the only structure at the secondary school as the school has had infrastructure challenges which include lack of classroom blocks and staff houses," he said.

Mr Kasoka said it will be a great relief if the people of Chikonkwelo can be given the needed support by the DMMU office to rebuild the structure as the incident has disturbed the learning process.

"We will be very grateful if the community is supported by the DMMU to have the structure rebuilt as soon as possible to help restore the community's effort in achieving this milestone," he said.

Speaking at the same event, DMMU Regional coordinator, Paul Muyongo advised the community to always try and put up structures that are safe and able to withstand calamities.

"As DMMU we always encourage building back better so we need the community to set up environmentally friendly structures that are climate resilient.

"I would also urge the implementers of community projects to consult with all the available technocrats and institutions with various expertise," Mr Muyongo said.

He added that projects which are consultative allow the diverse expertise on the project to ensure little available resources not to go to waste.

"It is regrettable to have this experience, however, if community projects are consultative, it always gives room to avoid wastage of few available resources," Mr Muyongo said.

Meanwhile, Chikonkwelo Secondary School Head Teacher, Frederick Kambanji said about 200 pupils have been negatively affected as Covid-19 has also reduced the normal learning space and time.

Mr Kambanji said the displaced pupils are now squatting at the nearest CMML church and the primary school.

And District Education Board Secretary, Juma Phiri commended the teachers and the churches for such initiative.

"We want to commend you the teachers and the church for the initiative used during the whole calamity, we are really thankful,” Mr Phiri said.

– ZANIS.