Dhaka,  Friday
05 July 2024

DALADALIYA GOVT PRIMARY SCHOOL

Youth recreation imperiled by neglected playground

Konkana Roy, Phulbari 

Published: 08:55, 3 July 2024

Youth recreation imperiled by neglected playground

Photo: Messenger

The community of Hamidpur Union, under Pabartipur Upazila in Dinajpur, is rallying for the urgent repair of the school field at Daladaliya Government Primary School. The field, which serves as the only playground in the area, has fallen into disrepair, severely impacting the ability of students and local youth to engage in sports and recreational activities.

The Daladaliya Civic Forum, a local organization, has taken the initiative to address the issue. They have submitted a formal request to Fatema Khatun, the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) of Pabartipur, calling for a special allocation to rehabilitate the field. The appeal highlights the field's location in a low-lying area, which causes it to become waterlogged after even minor rainfall, making it unusable for sports.

The organization's representative, Mohammad Nur Alam, emphasized the dire consequences of the field's neglect. He warned that without a suitable space for sports, the youth might turn to substance abuse and other harmful activities. He urged the government to act swiftly to prevent such outcomes.

Local youth like Mohammad Pappu have expressed their desire to play on the field if it were in a better condition. They have observed a decline in healthy activities among their peers due to the field's poor state. Pappu and others have shown a willingness to contribute to the repair efforts and have called upon local representatives and authorities to support their cause.

Residents Shahidul Islam and Praveen Tofazzal Hossain, who have fond memories of playing on the field in their youth, have also voiced their concern. They highlighted the field's historical significance and its importance to the community, urging the administration to prioritize its repair.

Mohammad Ashraful Alam, the chairman of the school management committee, pointed out that the school's remote location has resulted in a lack of government attention and facilities. He stressed the immediate need for both the field and the school's unpaved road to be repaired, citing the difficulties teachers and students face during the rainy season.

Nasima Khatun, the head teacher of the school, concurred with the need for the field's repair, stating that it would greatly benefit the students and the local community.

UNO Fatema Khatun has acknowledged the receipt of the appeal and confirmed discussions with the Upazila Education Officer. She has assured the community that steps will be taken to address the issue and restore the field to a condition suitable for sports and recreation.

The community of Hamidpur Union awaits the fulfillment of these promises, hoping for a swift resolution that will bring back the joy of sports to their local youth and students.

Messenger/Disha