CLASSES SUSPENDED AT BV PRIMARY SCHOOL AMID HEALTH CONCERNS OVER PIGEON INFESTATION
By: Jayda Jeune | HGP Nightly News|
Classes at the Beterverwagting (BV) Primary School have been suspended following mounting health concerns caused by a severe pigeon infestation that has left classrooms contaminated and unsafe for students and teachers.
The decision was confirmed on Thursday by Minister of Education Sonia Parag, after parents threatened to stage protest action over the deteriorating conditions at the school.
Minister Parag told reporters that while several students who had reportedly fallen ill were examined at the Enmore Regional Hospital, medical officials determined that the illnesses were not directly linked to the pigeon infestation.
“They were assessed and examined by a doctor at the Enmore Regional Hospital, and it was determined that it was not related,” Minister Parag explained.
Despite this, the Ministry of Education has committed to working closely with parents, teachers, and the regional administration to ensure that the BV Primary School is restored to a safe and healthy learning environment before reopening.
“We can’t close off ventilation entirely, but we’re assessing schools where there are exposures, and we will move piece by piece to address these issues,” Minister Parag added.
According to parents, pigeon droppings cover desks, walls, and benches daily, even after repeated cleaning efforts. The situation, which affects both mainstream and special-needs departments, sparked national attention after Hannah Mohamed, sister of We Invest in Nationhood party leader Azruddin Mohamed, shared disturbing photos of the school’s condition on social media.
The Ministry of Education has stated that the school will remain closed until repairs and sanitation efforts are fully completed.
