Gopeng: Despite being affected by a water surge incident in Kampung Orang Asli Ulu Geruntum, learning has continued for pupils of Sekolah Kebangsaan (SK) Ulu Geruntum, with classes now being conducted at the relief centre (PPS) at Dewan Bandaran Gopeng.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, SK Ulu Geruntum teacher Nuraqilah Zairul Hisham stated that school sessions at the PPS, which began on June 22, are being carried out according to a set schedule and coordinated by the Kinta Selatan District Education Office. There are seven pupils, all from the Orang Asli community, ranging from preschool to Year Six, while eight teachers are assigned on a rotational basis at the PPS. The subjects taught focus on four core areas: Bahasa Melayu, English, Mathematics, and Science, with teaching sessions held from 7.30 am to 12.30 pm daily.
The 29-year-old teacher noted that the change in learning environment initially disrupted pupils' concentration, but the situation improved after introducing a more flexible teaching approach. On the first day, pupils were unsettled, feeling less emotionally comfortable due to not being in a normal school setting. To address this, Nuraqilah brought her own equipment for the pupils to use, which helped engage their interest and focus during lessons.
One of the pupils, Wajuyanis a/p Bah Alang Satu, expressed happiness at continuing her lessons with six other friends at the PPS, despite the different environment. She appreciated the teachers' kindness and dedication, ensuring the continuity of their education. Wajuyanis, a Year Four pupil, emphasized her commitment to paying full attention during every learning session at the PPS to avoid missing out on her studies.
More than 50 people, including three babies and a pregnant woman, were relocated to Dewan Bandaran Gopeng following the water surge incident in the village on June 19. The evacuation was necessary after the main bridge connecting the settlement to the main road collapsed due to strong currents, leaving residents stranded and cutting off access to the area.