Upazila Shilpakala academy in a state of disrepair

Shilpakala Academy in Jhenidah is in a state of disrepair due to lack of maintenance by the authorities. This academy at Harinakundo upazila was established in 1985. Since then no renovation has been carried out. Consequently, students are bearing the brunt of this negligence.
While visiting the academy recently, this correspondent found some non-functional musical instruments. Besides, the tin shed academy was in a dilapidated condition. Rainwater had seeped in, rendering all the musical instruments completely unusable. The good number of students enrolled in the academy were absent due to lack of musical instruments.
Abu Sayeed Tunu, secretary of the Shilpakala academy, said the organisation was badly strapped for funds. While it has sought financial help from UNO and upazila chairman for the development of this academy, its efforts so far have been in vain.
Pourashabha chairman Shahinur Rahman Rintu of Harinakundo expressed ignorance about the derelict condition of the academy. He said that he would look into the matter and take necessary steps to rectify the situation.
Shamsul Islam Shona, principal, government Lalon Shah College of Harinakundo upazila, said that the Shilpakala Academy plays a key role in education. It is also a co-curricular institute of education. He added that the public should come forward to help maintain this academy.
Harinakundo Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Abdur Razzak said that the Zila Parishad had sanctioned Taka one lakh, which he hoped would be used to upgrade the Academy.