Water Surge: SK Ulu Geruntum Pupils Continue Lessons At PPS

GOPENG, June 25 (Bernama) -- Despite being affected by a water surge incident in Kampung Orang Asli Ulu Geruntum, learning has continued for pupils of Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Ulu Geruntum, with classes now being conducted at the relief centre (PPS) at Dewan Bandaran Gopeng.

SK Ulu Geruntum teacher Nuraqilah Zairul Hisham said school sessions at the PPS, which began on June 22, are being carried out according to a set schedule and coordinated by the Kinta Selatan District Education Office.

“There are seven pupils ((all Orang Asli) involved, from preschool to Year Six, while eight teachers are assigned on a rotational basis at the PPS

“The subjects taught are slightly different, with emphasis placed on four core subjects, namely Bahasa Melayu, English, Mathematics and Science, and teaching and learning sessions are held from 7.30 am to 12.30 pm every day,” she said when met by Bernama at the PPS here today.

The 29-year-old teacher said the change in learning environment had initially disrupted pupils’ concentration, but the situation began to improve after a more flexible teaching approach was introduced.

“On the first day, they were quite unsettled. They felt less emotionally comfortable and found the learning environment challenging as they were not in a normal school setting.

“To make sure they are comfortable, I bring my own equipment for the pupils to use, as we understand that their situation here is different from school. It also helps to get them more interested and focused during lessons,” she said.

One of the pupils Wajuyanis a/p Bah Alang Satu said she was happy to be able to continue her lessons with six other friends at the PPS, despite the different environment.

“The teachers are also kind and keep teaching as usual even though the learning environment here is different from our school. I don’t want to miss out on my studies, so I try to give my full attention during every teaching and learning session at the PPS,” said the Year Four pupil.

More than 50 people, including three babies and a pregnant woman, were relocated to Dewan Bandaran Gopeng following a water surge incident in the village on June 19.

The evacuation was conducted after the main bridge lconnecting the settlement to the main road collapsed due to strong currents, leaving residents stranded and cutting off access to the area.

--BERNAMA