KUCHING: The recent floods have left a devastating impact on schools, teachers, and students, particularly in remote areas.
Many schools were severely affected, with some even serving as temporary evacuation centres (PPS).
Sarawak Bumiputera Teachers Union (KGBS) president Zulkifli Sebli urged school administrators to consider assisting with decisions regarding contributions and collections that parents need to pay in the aftermath of the flood.
“We are aware that many schools have been severely affected, especially in remote areas, with some schools serving as temporary evacuation centers (PPS). The coming weeks will undoubtedly be challenging for schools,” he said in a statement.
He also said the coming weeks will undoubtedly be challenging for schools.
“The floods during the school term have had a devastating impact on teachers, with many of their homes almost completely submerged.
“We believe schools understand the psychological challenges faced by parents and students. Many school supplies, including books and other essentials, have been damaged and need to be replaced.
“The Sarawak State Education Department (JPNS) should issue a special circular to postpone any payments related to the upcoming school session,” he said, adding that losses suffered by teachers whose quarters have been destroyed should also be assessed so that special assistance can be provided, either from the state government or the Ministry of Education (KPM).
“Such support would not only ease the burden on affected teachers but also help restore their morale and overcome trauma.
“The post-flood period is the most critical phase. Besides property damage, teachers also experience emotional distress.
“Therefore, we hope that the construction of new schools or quarters will provide them with a new sense of hope,” he said.
Besides, the union also called for consideration of special leave for teachers to clean up the damage caused by the floods.
“Many teachers from outside the area may only return to their assigned stations a day or two before the new school session begins, which is insufficient time to clean and repair their residences.
“KPM itself should visit severely affected schools to ensure the safety of these areas. If necessary, new schools should be built in higher locations, along with comfortable quarters, which we eagerly anticipate,” he said.
