Karnataka floods: Nearly 8,000 govt schools need immediate repair

BENGALURU: The department of public instruction has identified 7,777 government schools for immediate repair and restoration after the recent floods. This includes 7,492 primary schools and 285 secondary schools.
The estimated loss stands at Rs 325 crore in primary schools and Rs 20 crore for secondary schools. Damages for primary schools have been reported from 23 taluks; the highest being Chikkodi (1,305 schools), Gadag (1,025) and Shivamogga (1,074). Secondary schools in Mangaluru were the worst hit (95), followed by Shivamogga (87) and Belagavi (57).
“Till these schools are ready to be occupied, alternative arrangements have been made for students. Classes have resumed at temporary centres,” said MP Madegowda, director, primary education.
Pvt schools offer help
Three state-level associations of private schools have formed a Private School Social Responsibility Forum (PSSRF) to ensure free education for affected children in Bagalkot, Kodagu, Gadag and Mudalgi in the current academic year.
PSSRF will reimburse the school admitting the students 50% of the tuition fees, while the member institute must bear the remaining 50% of the cost.
The associations included Associated Managements of Private Unaided English Medium School in Karnataka, Managements of Independent CBSE Schools Association and Management Association of Schools. Around 25 students from each of the identified places will receive help. Those who have lost parents, houses or household properties will be given priority. The deputy commissioner or BEO has to authorise the loss.