Leh: Zonal Education Officer (ZEO) Nubra Sonam Dolkar, conducted an official visit to the remote and strategically significant MS Tongstet school, situated near the Siachen border. The visit aimed to assess the school’s functioning, address ongoing educational needs, and engage with the local community.
Upon arrival, ZEO Dolkar observed that all teachers were present and actively participating in a productive meeting with the School Management Committee (SMC) members and parents. The discussion primarily focused on preparations for the upcoming Term II examinations. She was notably impressed by the active involvement and sincere support demonstrated by the parents towards the school’s initiatives.
A significant development discussed during the meeting was the joint decision by the headmaster, staff, parents, and SMC to establish a residential hostel for students until the completion of the Term II exams. This initiative, aimed at ensuring the safety and convenience of students, was highly commended.
The school itself was found to be well-managed, and it was encouraging to see that all children from the village, including the children of teachers, were enrolled. The school also functions as a central point for three feeding schools, with students from these institutions joining MS Tongstet after completing Grade 5.
During her visit, the SMC members and parents voiced a strong demand for the upgrade of MS Tongstet to a residential high school. Their primary concern was the welfare and future educational prospects of their children beyond Grade 8, as currently, they need to relocate to a residential hostel at the Headquarter Deskit NSCBAV tribal hostel for further studies.
The community’s demand for upgrading the school underscores their commitment to accessible, quality education and their desire to provide a safe and supportive learning environment for their children.
