By Burnett Munthali
Tragedy struck Kaungwe Community Day Secondary School (CDSS) in Mponela, Dowa, on Friday, as a lightning strike claimed the lives of four students. The incident occurred during a storm, leaving the school and surrounding community in shock and mourning.
The Ministry of Education has confirmed the devastating news, with its Public Relations Officer, Mphatso Nkuonera, expressing deep sorrow over the loss.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragedy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families, friends, and the Kaungwe CDSS community during this difficult time,” said Nkuonera.
The students, whose names have not yet been released, were struck during a thunderstorm that swept through the area. Details surrounding the incident remain scarce, but it has raised concerns about the safety measures in place at schools, especially in rural areas prone to severe weather conditions.
The lightning strike has left parents, teachers, and classmates in grief, with many struggling to comprehend the sudden loss of young lives.
In response to the tragedy, local authorities have visited the school to console the bereaved families and assess the situation. The Ministry of Education has pledged to provide support to the affected families and the school as they come to terms with the loss.
“The Ministry will work closely with the school administration and local authorities to ensure that the affected families receive the necessary support,” Nkuonera added.
This tragedy underscores the need for increased awareness and safety measures to protect students and teachers during storms. Schools, especially in rural areas, often lack proper infrastructure, such as lightning arrestors, which could mitigate such risks.
Weather experts have advised schools and communities to remain vigilant during the rainy season. They recommend:
1) Avoiding open spaces during storms.
2) Refraining from using electrical devices or metal objects.
3) Seeking shelter indoors away from windows and doors.
This incident serves as a wake-up call for authorities to prioritize the safety of students by improving infrastructure and conducting regular safety drills. Community leaders and stakeholders must collaborate to ensure that schools are equipped to handle natural disasters effectively.
The loss of four young lives at Kaungwe CDSS is a heart-wrenching reminder of the unpredictability of nature and the importance of preparedness. As the school and community mourn, it is hoped that this tragedy will prompt swift action to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Ministry of Education has assured the public of its commitment to ensuring the safety of students across the country. However, the grief-stricken families and the Kaungwe CDSS community will need time and support to heal from this devastating loss.
