CENTRAL BANGKA -- PT TIMAH Tbk continues to support the education sector not only by improving learning facilities but also by addressing essential needs that enable schools to operate effectively. One such initiative is the company's assistance in constructing a deep-water well for SMP Negeri 3 Simpang Katis in Central Bangka Regency.
For many years, SMP Negeri 3 Simpang Katis has faced a shortage of clean water, particularly during the dry season. The situation has frequently disrupted teaching and learning activities as well as the school's sanitation needs.
The Principal of SMP Negeri 3 Simpang Katis, Hastri, explained that since the school was established, it had never had a deep-water well due to budget limitations. School Operational Assistance (BOS) funds cannot be used for well construction, while local government funding has been prioritized for other needs.
"During the dry season, when there is no rainfall, we have to purchase water to fill our storage tanks. We even ask students to bring water from home. This situation has certainly affected the school's daily operations," Hastri said.
According to her, the school has relied solely on an infiltration well that depends on rainwater. When the dry season arrives, the well dries up, leaving the school without an adequate water supply.
She also explained that the school's rocky terrain makes drilling a well particularly challenging and costly.
"Based on the survey results, a water source can only be reached by drilling a well approximately 60 meters deep. Conventional drilling is not sufficient because of the rocky ground conditions," she explained.
Hastri expressed her gratitude that PT TIMAH's assistance would finally make it possible for the school to have a reliable source of clean water.
"We are sincerely grateful to PT TIMAH for providing this assistance. It will be used to construct a deep-water well so that the school's clean water needs can finally be met," she said.
She believes the new well will significantly improve teaching and learning activities while providing greater comfort for both students and teachers.
Hastri also appreciated PT TIMAH's commitment to supporting the community and the education sector in Simpang Katis Village.
"We truly appreciate PT TIMAH for responding positively to our proposal. This assistance provides a real solution to the clean water challenges we have faced for so many years," she said.
Looking ahead, the school hopes the partnership with PT TIMAH will continue. One of the school's remaining priorities is the construction of a literacy and performance stage where students can showcase their talents and creativity.
"Every Friday, we hold a Creative Performance program where students deliver speeches, recite poetry, and practice public speaking. We hope that one day we will have a proper stage so our students can develop their talents even more effectively," Hastri concluded. (*)
