Nongpoh, June 23: In a humanitarian gesture, members of the Hynñiewtrep Achik National Movement (HANM) from Ri Bhoi District, in collaboration with the HANM Eastern Zone, on Tuesday donated roofing sheets to the storm-ravaged Umsyai Mawlamase Presbyterian LP School at Umsyai village in the Mawhati area of Ri Bhoi District.
The school was severely damaged following heavy rainfall and strong winds that lashed several parts of the district in recent weeks, causing widespread destruction to houses and public infrastructure. Among the affected institutions was the Umsyai Mawlamase Presbyterian LP School, which suffered extensive damage to its roof.
The donation was handed over to the school’s Head Teacher and Secretary of the School Managing Committee, Liswit Kharmuti, in the presence of school authorities.
The HANM delegation was led by Khrawpyrkhat Thongni, Finance Secretary of HANM Ri Bhoi District, along with Batskhem Syngkli, Secretary of the Education Cell, and Warmshal Makdoh, President of HANM Eastern Zone, besides other members of the organisation.
The roofing sheets are expected to provide immediate relief and enable the school authorities to carry out urgent repairs to the damaged building, particularly the roof, which has remained exposed since the storm.
The school, one of the oldest educational institutions in the area, has reportedly faced numerous challenges over the years and was badly affected by the recent natural calamity. The damage came at a crucial time, as students are currently appearing for their half-yearly examinations.
Despite the adverse conditions, the school management has continued to conduct examinations to ensure that students do not lose valuable academic time. However, the absence of a proper roof has forced students to sit for examinations under difficult circumstances, exposed to rain and intense sunlight.
Speaking to the media, Head Teacher Liswit Kharmuti said the school has been in a damaged condition for nearly a month. He expressed concern over the hardships faced by students, particularly young children, who have been compelled to take their examinations without adequate shelter.
He said rainfall during examination hours and exposure to harsh weather conditions have created a challenging learning environment, affecting both students and teachers.
Kharmuti also appealed to the elected representatives of the area and the State Government to extend support to the institution. He pointed out that apart from the damaged school building, the lack of proper road connectivity to the school remains another major challenge, adding to the difficulties faced by students and teaching staff alike.
The school authorities and local residents now hope that the recent assistance will pave the way for more comprehensive support to restore the institution and improve educational infrastructure in the area.
