EAST FLORES, EAST NUSA TENGGARA — “We’re afraid that the children won’t be able to learn as they normally would. We’re afraid that they will forget the lessons they’ve already been taught. This is especially concerning now, as we’re entering the second semester, which is crucial for advancing to the next grade,” says Maria Yuliana Prasedisia Futa, a survivor of the Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki eruption.
Maria hails from Bawalatang Village, Nawokote, Wulanggitang District, East Flores Regency. Currently, she is seeking refuge at SMPN 1 Wulanggitang. She stands as an unsung hero, a teacher, educator, and surrogate parent to dozens of children.
“In terms of teaching, we’re compelled to conduct classes at the evacuation site, inside emergency tents, gathering many students from SDN Kemiri, SDN Bawalatang, SDN Klatanlo, among others,” Maria shares.
Despite the ongoing emergency, Maria and her colleagues persist in educating the students.
“We gather them in one place and proceed with our teaching as usual. At the end of each lesson, we’re required to compile a report and submit it to the department head,” Maria elaborates.
With just emergency tents for classrooms, she continues to teach using any available educational materials.
“We must carry on teaching with these emergency tents. We still attempt to conduct tests or exams to ensure there are grades for the second semester, allowing the children to ascertain whether they can move on to the next grade,” Maria states.
“The essential needs include educational materials like pencils, pens, markers, or blackboards that the students can easily understand,” she adds.
Baca juga: Gunung Lewotobi Laki-Laki Siaga, Warga Mengungsi, Dompet Dhuafa Hadirkan Dapur Umum
Maria reports that there are currently many sick children and elderly individuals at the evacuation center. Moreover, an immediate need still exists for sleeping mats or mattresses.
“Provisions for food, clothing, and sleeping mats have been made, although some have yet to receive these essentials. There is also a health post available,” Maria mentions.
“However, in the evacuation center, we are aware of the many children and elderly who are ill. The situation remains deeply concerning, with numerous children and elderly people sleeping on mats,” she discloses.
As a recipient of the Dompet Dhuafa Public Kitchen and Warmth Post, Maria expresses profound gratitude to those who have dedicated their time and effort to assist the disaster-stricken communities in NTT.
Maria hopes for a swift end to this crisis and a return to normal life.
“I wish for Mount Lewotobi Laki-Laki to stabilize soon so we can return home and resume our usual activities. Additionally, I hope the children can adapt to this situation, maintaining calm, patience, and resilience. And let’s not forget to pray and be thankful,” Maria admits.
“A heartfelt thank you to all the donors. We pray for your future prosperity. Let us always remain prayerful and grateful. Our deepest thanks go to the donors who have supported us,” Maria concludes. (Dompet Dhuafa/DMC/MAN/AFP)