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In a devastating incident, a fire engulfed the Mahdia Secondary School in Guyana, leading to the loss of at least 20 lives, as reported by the AFP news agency on Monday, citing a government official.
The Guyanese government has swiftly responded, initiating a comprehensive and urgent medical evacuation-supported operation. Five planes have been dispatched to Mahdia, carrying additional medical supplies and facilitating medivacs, in collaboration with regional health officials, according to an official government statement. In order to provide the necessary medical care, seven children are being transported by medivac to Georgetown.
President Mohamed Irfaan Ali expressed his condolences and stated that every effort would be made to reach out to the parents of the affected girls. These parents reside not only in Mahdia but also in Campbelltown, Micobie, El Paso, and various other villages in North Pakaraimas, located in Region Eight.
The fire is believed to have originated in the girls’ dormitory, with reports suggesting that it started around midnight, plunging the school into a state of chaos and despair.
Acknowledging the gravity of the situation, the prime minister is personally leading a team comprising cabinet members and other officials to Mahdia. Their presence aims to provide support, reassurance, and ensure that all necessary measures are taken during this critical time. Meanwhile, Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn has already arrived in Mahdia to oversee the ongoing operations and lend assistance to those affected.
This tragic incident has sent shockwaves throughout the community and the nation as a whole. The loss of young lives is a painful reminder of the importance of prioritizing safety measures and disaster preparedness in educational institutions. Investigations into the cause of the fire are underway to determine the exact circumstances leading to this devastating event.
In these trying times, the collective thoughts and prayers of the nation are with the families and friends of the victims. It is crucial that we come together as a community to offer support, comfort, and solace to those affected by this heart-wrenching tragedy. As the nation mourns the loss, we must also reflect on the measures needed to prevent such incidents and ensure the safety and well-being of our students.
The government remains committed to providing all necessary resources and support to aid the affected families during this challenging period. Furthermore, it serves as a reminder for authorities, educational institutions, and the wider society to enhance safety protocols, conduct regular drills, and prioritize the well-being of our students.
In memory of those who lost their lives, let us stand united, offering our condolences, support, and unwavering commitment to preventing such tragedies in the future.
