Emergency schools open in camps

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