Khandahata Government Primary School: A Struggle for Basic Facilities in Jajpur

Challenging Conditions at Khandahata Government Primary School

By Harshabardhan Behera

Jajpur: The Khandahata Government Primary School, located in Ward 26 of Byasanagar Municipality, is grappling with severe sanitation issues and insufficient infrastructure. Parents are increasingly worried about the lack of essential facilities at this 54-year-old school.

Founded in 1972, the institution serves 46 students from Shishu Vatika to Class V but is limited to just two classrooms. The teaching staff consists of only two teachers, including the headmistress. The school is devoid of functional toilets, adequate classroom space, and a complete boundary wall. The only toilet available is locked due to cracks in its walls and broken floor tiles, rendering it unsafe for use.

As a result, students are compelled to relieve themselves outside the school premises. An old, dilapidated structure with an asbestos roof poses additional safety hazards. The incomplete boundary wall allows rainwater and drainage to flood the area, creating a damp environment. Residents have reported sightings of venomous snakes in the vicinity. Furthermore, the school lacks a reliable source of safe drinking water, forcing students to rely on piped water from the Public Health department.

Mid-day meals are prepared in a rundown room, with students eating on the verandah due to the absence of a proper dining area. Headmistress Lipsarani Samal mentioned that the school has not received any government funding in the last five years, despite regular reports of its issues being submitted to higher authorities. Bijay Kumar Behera, president of the school management committee, stated that the school has faced numerous challenges for years, despite ongoing requests for improvements.

Rabindra Rout, a parent and councillor for Ward 26, indicated that the local legislator has been contacted regarding the construction of a boundary wall, additional classrooms, and a road. “Funds have already been allocated for the road construction within the school grounds. We will reach out to higher authorities about the other issues,” he noted. Jajpur District Education Officer Maheswar Sahu expressed that he was made aware of the situation through the media and promised that efforts would be initiated to address these concerns soon.