Methodist Primary School at Torma Bum in the Bonthe District has been grappling with the aftermath of a fierce storm in May 2023, leaving two school buildings with their roofs completely blown off. The community has been facing a crisis as local authorities struggle to find solutions, and both the government and Methodist mission response remain conspicuously silent.

The dire situation has forced the head teacher, Manfred Sannah, and local chiefdom authorities into an active pursuit of assistance. The severe damage has left pupils and teachers crammed into a single three-classroom building, resulting in extreme overcrowding. Sannah expressed the challenges they face in maintaining students’ attention amidst the congestion, exacerbated by the classrooms doubling as offices and stores.

In addition to the structural issues, the school is grappling with a lack of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) facilities. The school’s water tap is damaged, compelling students to trek long distances for water.

Paramount Chief Kaipumor of Bum Chiefdom shared the community’s frustration, revealing that despite numerous attempts to resolve the problem, there has been no tangible assistance. Town Chief Alhaji Mustapha echoed these sentiments, urging authorities to swiftly intervene and address the pressing issues faced by the school.

The people of Torma Bum are now crying out for help, particularly in the interest of their children’s education. The silence from both the government and the Methodist mission is causing growing concern, and urgent action is needed to provide relief to the school and its students.