Emergency schools open in camps

The Jakarta-based People's School Foundation has opened four emergency schools in four camps for displaced people in Keutapang and Gue Gajah in Banda Aceh, Lampeunurut in Aceh Besar, and on Simeuleu Isle.

"We're preparing for the establishment of more schools in Meulaboh and Darul Islam areas," foundation executive Fauziah Rosad told The Jakarta Post on Thursday.

The foundation has sent at least 100 volunteers to the shelters as teachers, she said. The teachers started work on Monday.

Each school has four classes: one class to accommodate first- grade to third-grade students; one for students from fourth grade to sixth grade, and two other classes for junior high school and high school students.

"No matter the condition, the children have to continue with their studies. Moreover, they will face mid-semester exams on Feb. 1, " Fauziah added.

Along with the foundation, Jakarta-based charity organization Dompet Dhuafa Republika opened a kindergarten in the Keutapang camp.

Volunteer teachers there show children how to make origami and encourage them to play together. JP/Ruslan Sangadji