It was good to read about local companies, police officers and community members supporting an effort to tackle some serious problems at Oranje School (see Friday/Saturday edition) ahead of today’s reopening. A recent visit to the historic school in Philipsburg had revealed various parts to be in a state of disrepair.
Mention was made of mould, bacteria and termites, a lack of urinals in the boy’s bathroom, a missing toilet seat in the girl’s bathroom, missing window louvres, window handles that were not working, broken and rustred sink faucets as well as a playground in deplorable condition, with broken and rusted children’s swings. Photos showing some of these issues can be seen on The Daily Herald’s website and Facebook page.
The Ministry of Education, Science, Culture, Youth and Sport (EYCS) reportedly told those involved other schools were in worse shape and a process of approval including payments was needed before work could be carried out. The initiator then successfully approached various relevant private businesses for assistance to fix, clean and tidy the place up.
In the newspaper of a day earlier, Democratic Party (DP) Member of Parliament (MP) Sarah Wescot-Williams called for changes in the country’s tax system to make donations for education, spots and different good causes more attractive. She referred to teachers and organisations again stepping forward to help ensure students and classrooms have the materials they need at the beginning of a new academic year.
According to her, this pertains to more than simple supplies like pens, pencils and copybooks. As usual, schools bags with such contents were handed out by several groups and persons.
The latter is okay because it concerns expenses for parents some might not be able to afford. This prevents pupils of less fortunate families having to start at a disadvantage.
Regarding building and physical facilities, however, the public school board has a clear duty to maintain them. Upkeep should be consistent to avoid these undesirable situations from occurring in the first place.
The ultimate responsibility here remains one of government.
