This school, built in 1986 and designed for 768 students, is now overcrowded — 913 children are studying here. The technical condition of the building raises serious concerns.
Despite the fact that at the beginning of its existence the school was considered one of the most modern in Kara-Balta, it now requires major repairs. The key problem is the leaking roof, which has been causing inconveniences for four years: during rain, water flows from the third floor to the first, forming puddles in the corridors and classrooms. To prevent injuries among children, rags have to be spread out and buckets placed.
"The summer repair of the gym, which involved painting the floors, is not long-lasting — the boards have started to bend due to moisture," the teachers share.
According to information from the school administration, appeals to the local mayor's office are sent regularly.
"Starting in 2024, we are updating requests every two months. We hope that this time we will be heard," the school's management states.
The head of the Jayil Department of Education, Talantbek Arykov, reported that a meeting was recently held with the city administration, where issues regarding the preparation of estimates for the repair of educational institutions for 2026 were discussed. For this, the Department of Education needs assistance in compiling a list of necessary repairs.
"Based on the requests from school and kindergarten leaders, a list of priority tasks has been compiled. All educational institutions in Kara-Balta have areas that need repairs. For example, at School No. 1, old wooden windows and doors need to be replaced, and the restrooms on the second floor need to be repaired. School No. 11 requires a roof replacement. School No. 4 needs facade and window updates. In some institutions, heating systems are also worn out," he added.
Nevertheless, Arykov noted that overall the condition of the schools allows the educational process to continue, and most problems can be solved with funding.
He also pointed out that during the summer, cosmetic repairs were carried out in the schools and kindergartens of the city with the help of teachers and parents, including painting walls and replacing furniture. "There are no serious problems hindering education, but updating school furniture is necessary," the head concluded.
As for textbooks, Talantbek Arykov noted that the provision of educational materials in schools is at a stable level.
"Currently, students do not have problems with the lack of books. Textbooks are available in both printed and electronic formats — through the websites kitep.edu.gov.kg and other resources. We recently received sets for the 1st grade as part of the transition to 12-year education and expect supplies for the 2nd grade," he added.
