Students Combat Scorching Heat with Wet Towels in Banteay Meanchey

In the sweltering heat of Banteay Meanchey province, students at Koumrou Srok​ Primary School are adopting innovative methods to combat the ...

In the sweltering heat of Banteay Meanchey province, students at Koumrou Srok​ Primary School are adopting innovative methods to combat the scorching temperatures. With the mercury rising to a staggering 43°C, these young learners are facing challenges to stay cool and focused in the classroom.

Wrapping wet towels around their heads, students at the school in Russey Krok Village are attempting to alleviate the heat's effects. The initiative comes as a response to the concerning symptoms experienced by many pupils, including nosebleeds and headaches, exacerbated by the extreme weather conditions.

Principal Deap Vichettara is urging authorities to consider interventions to safeguard the well-being of the students. With a significant number of children falling ill and seeking permission to leave due to the heat, Vichettara emphasizes the urgent need for action.

Recognizing the importance of parental support, Vichettara appeals to parents to aid in cooling their children's discomfort. Encouraging the use of small towels soaked in water and increased hydration, the principal underscores the collaborative effort required to mitigate the impact of the heatwave on students.

The principal's call for action resonates strongly within the community, with thousands sharing his message on social media platforms. Suggestions pour in, with many advocating for shorter school hours and breaks to prevent heat-related illnesses among students, particularly the younger ones.

In response to inquiries about reducing school hours, the Ministry of Education, Youth, and Sport (MoEYS) issues a statement highlighting preventive measures to combat the effects of the heatwave. Recommendations include staying hydrated, consuming nutritious foods, and wearing appropriate clothing for protection against the heat.

As the heatwave persists, Vichettara proposes innovative solutions to alleviate the discomfort faced by students. Suggestions range from installing solar-powered water pumps to providing temporary adjustments in school schedules, echoing measures implemented during previous heatwaves.

Following deliberations, MoEYS announces changes to school hours in light of the ongoing heatwave. Morning classes will now commence at 7am and conclude by 11am, while afternoon sessions will run from 2pm to 5pm. These adjustments aim to minimize students' exposure to the extreme temperatures, ensuring a safer learning environment.

Amidst soaring temperatures, the community rallies together to support students in coping with the challenges posed by the heatwave. With proactive measures in place and collaborative efforts between educators, parents, and authorities, the focus remains on safeguarding the health and well-being of the young learners in Banteay Meanchey province.