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KUCHING, July 13: SMK St Teresa has received a RM3 million grant from the Unit For Other Religions (Unifor) for the purpose of rebuilding the school assembly hall.
On Oct 29, 2016, a fire broke out in the school assembly hall block, which also contained the staff room, library, sewing room, music room, counselling room, and printing room. As a result, the entire block became unsafe and unusable.
According to Deputy Premier of Sarawak Dato Sri Dr Sim Kui Hian in a Facebook post yesterday, the rebuilding financial appeal is divided into two phases: the classroom block and the school assembly hall block.
“The classroom block is for students attending morning classes. Costing more than RM4 million, with the Sarawak government contributing RM2 million. Currently in use.
“The school assembly hall block provides more than just a school hall; it also provides much-needed facilities for schools and communities. Estimated RM5 million with the RM3 million Sarawak government grant, can move forward with construction while continuing fund raising (racing against time due to the rising cost of construction materials),” Dr Sim said.
He then urged all Teresians, friends of St Teresa, and fellow Sarawakians to help with the remaining fundraising as soon as possible.
“Although education is on the Federal list of the constitution and is solely the responsibility of the Federal government in Putrajaya, the Sarawak government has always valued education (talent development) in Sarawak, including mission schools and Chinese schools, because these schools are for all Sarawakians, regardless of race or religion,” he added.
Meanwhile, the Old Teresians’ Association explained in a Facebook post on May 7 that previous funds donated went to Phase 1 of the rebuilding project, which was the construction of a new classroom and Administration block.
“This block was completed first as it was more urgently needed with the entire staff room, library, and several classrooms being destroyed in the fire.
“The completion of the new block has significantly improved the lives of Teresians.
“However, there is an ever present and rising need for the new school hall to be built,” it said.
The Association continued stating, “For the past few years, the school has worked very hard to raise money for Phase 2 of the rebuilding project. Funds are urgently needed as construction will only begin when the full amount of RM 4 million is secured.” — DayakDaily
