About 400 students in two primary schools in Louhajang upazila of Munshiganj have been deprived of various government benefits for a long time. In addition, teachers and employees have been living inhumane lives since their salaries and allowances have been stopped for almost two years. As a result, students are not getting stipends, textbooks and other benefits.
“Kumarbhog Padma Bridge Primary School” and “Jashaldia Padma Bridge Primary School” were established at the Kumarbhog and Jashaldia Purnbasan sites in Louhajang for students from families affected by the construction of the Padma Multipurpose Bridge.
The two schools, built on 1.56 and 1.83 acres of land, started operating in March 2017 with 8 rooms each.
Initially, an NGO named ‘Rik’, later ‘Samahar’ and ‘SSUSJB’ jointly managed the two schools. Salaries and allowances have been completely stopped since the NGO activities were stopped in 2023.
Nevertheless, teaching activities are ongoing under the supervision of the Louhajang Upazila Education Office. Although the two schools were governmentized on September 29, 2024, it is known that the facilities have not been introduced as they are not included in the revenue sector. Lucky Akhter, acting headmaster of Jashaldia Padma Bridge Primary School, said, “Many students are moving elsewhere due to lack of government facilities.
I am in trouble with my family after not receiving salaries for two years. I demand immediate inclusion in the revenue sector.”
Mosammat Umme Siddika Lipi, headmaster of Kumarbhog Padma Bridge Primary School, said, “203 students study regularly in our school. The plight of teachers and employees has reached an extreme point. Government facilities need to be introduced immediately.” Louhajang Upazila Primary Education Officer Md. Enaytur Rahman said, “The necessary documents for the governmentization of the manpower have been sent to the Department of Education. We hope to get good news soon.”
Bangladesh Bridge Authority Deputy Director (Administration) Sabbir Ahmed said, “The governmentization process is almost over.
It will be included in the revenue sector very soon.” Louhajang Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md. Nesar Uddin said, “The matter is being looked into seriously. A letter has already been sent to the relevant department. It will be ensured that students get equal opportunities.” Locals demand – It is time to take quick administrative steps to protect the future of the vulnerable students.