Parents, teachers in favour of St Ants school building demolition speak out

In what appears to be a coordinated release, a parent and a teacher of St Anthony’s Lower Primary School in Shillong have written to the press about what they feel is the need for a new building to replace the old wooden structure that has made the institution the subject of a court case.

One Nangkhrawburom R Kahit Dympep (representing parents) and F Pohti (teacher) wrote to Highland Post today in the space of 4 minutes of each other to argue for the demolition of the 123-year-old building.

The school management reached the decision to demolish the structure and build a modern concrete one in its place for safety and capacity reasons. When the decision was announced, it received plenty of negative publicity as the building is seen as a heritage structure. Raphael Warjri, an artist, filed a PIL in the High Court to challenge the demolition. The court did not directly order a stay on the demolition but did order that a preliminary inquiry be carried out regarding the building. The school authorities then went ahead with the demolition and this resulted in the High Court issuing contempt notices to five school officials. The next hearing in this case is scheduled for Monday.

According to Pohti, there is an “urgent need” for a new school building on safety grounds.

“While we cherish the memories associated with this old building, it is imperative that we prioritise the safety and well-being of our students,” Pohti said. “The building had become increasingly unstable; it used to shake noticeably even when a bus passed by. The situation was particularly alarming during recess when approximately 700 children run and play in the corridors. The vibrations during these moments were not only unsettling but also frightening for both students and teachers alike. It was a daunting experience to conduct a class in an environment where the very foundation beneath us felt compromised.”

Constructing a new school building would not only address these pressing safety issues but also allow us to create a modern educational space that meets contemporary standards and ensure that our students receive the quality education they deserve, Pohti added.

Meanwhile, Dympep said that, with the old building demolished but the new one still not constructed due to the court case, students are being taught in ever more cramped circumstances.

“The school authority’s plan to construct a new building is a necessary step to ensure our children’s safety and education. However, the prolonged delay has resulted in a severe space constraint, limiting the available learning environment for our children,” Dympep said. “The completion of the new school building will provide a safe and suitable space for our students, alleviate congestion at Don Bosco Square and enhance the overall learning experience.”