Last week I went to a government school in Falaknuma with my cousin, for her kids' admission.
I expected a basic building. What I found made me feel sick for the rest of the day.
In 2 classrooms the children were sitting on the floor because there weren't enough benches left.
The fans weren't working, and it was hot enough that I was sweating just standing at the door.
In 1 room there was water dripping from the ceiling into a bucket. It looked like it had been there since last monsoon.
One teacher was moving between 2 or 3 classes while I waited. The children just sat and waited quietly.
A staff member told me some teacher posts were empty for a long time. He didn't say when they'd be filled.
I didn't ask more. He looked tired of the question already.
The washroom was the worst part. A girl told my cousin she goes home when she needs to use one.
It's a 10 minute walk for her, and then back again, in this heat, in a uniform.
There's no library or computer room, of course. Nobody even mentions those anymore, they're like a different world.
I came home and told my mother, and she went quiet for a while and then made tea.
I don't know what I can do about it. I'm not a rich person, I just visited for an admission.
Can ordinary people complain to someone, or help in a small way? Does anyone know a group that helps schools?
I'd happily bring a few fans or benches if it's allowed, or help with some paint.
I just can't stop thinking about that little girl walking home alone in this heat.