After eight long years of waiting, students at Garpawoong Middle Secondary School in Samdrup Jongkhar finally have new boarding facilities. The hostel, originally planned for completion in 2017, faced delays, forcing students to walk over five kilometres every day. Some parents even had to hire vehicles, spending Nu 2,000 monthly. The new boarding facilities are a much-needed relief for both students and their families.
Starting last week, 264 students, comprising 124 boys and 140 girls began staying in the new boarding facilities at Garpawoong Middle Secondary School.
Expressing relief, the students said that they no longer have to walk long distances to reach school. Parents are also relieved as they no longer need to arrange transportation for their children.
“Before, I had to pay Nu 2,000 monthly for a ride in a Bolero, but now I can stay in the hostel and focus more on my studies. The road used to get blocked, making it hard to get to school. But now with the new boarding facilities, it has become convenient,” said Dorji Wangmo, a student.
“Now, parents do not have to worry about taking us to school. At home, we have to often help our parents. But here in the hostel, we have dedicated study time, so we can focus more on studies,” said Pema Kunzang, another student.
“At home, we often get distracted by mobile phones, but here in the hostel, we are not allowed to use them. So, we have more time to study. The boarding facilities are a good opportunity for us to focus on our studies and it has benefited both parents and students,” said Tenzin Phuntsho, also a student.
Started in 2016, the project to construct two 120-bed hostels faced several setbacks, including a court dispute between the first contractor and the district administration. The construction was further delayed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Now, teachers, students, and parents are hoping the new boarding facilities will improve the overall educational experience and well-being of the students, creating a more supportive and convenient learning environment.
Kinley Wangchuk, Samdrup Jongkhar
Edited by Sonam Pem
