Sharmili Mallick

Mayurbhanj: The students of Thakurasahi Primary School under Kaptipada block of Mayurbhanj district are now forced to study under trees as the institution does not have its own building.

Though Odisha Government allocated funds for the construction of school building in 2012, it was allegedly embezzled by the then headmaster in-charge of the school which delayed the construction work.

Devoid of building, the children are forced to study under trees without drinking water, toilet and electricity facilities.

“Children are studying under trees and a school building is required for them. Our village also lacks other basic facilities,” laments a parent Babita Murmu.

Babirekha Biswal, Headmaster of the School said, “As the construction of school building is incomplete, we used to teach the students on verandah. As the conditions were not favourable, we started to teach them under trees.”

The villagers alleged that despite repeated complaints, no steps have been taken by the concerned officials towards early completion of the construction work of the school building which is still half-built.

When contacted, Kaptipada Block Education Officer (BEO) Shashidhar Singh said he was aware of the problem and directed the headmaster, who had allegedly misappropriated the funds to return the money back within 7 days.

“The teacher, who misappropriated the money, deposited some of the amount and has assured to return rest of the money soon. We have also directed the teacher to return the entire amount within seven days so that the construction of the school can be started,” informed Singh.

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