The schoolyard is mixed with bricks and stones, the corrugated iron roof is not yet roofed, the boarding area is still empty. The flood that passed left behind greater gaps in material things - that is the risk of disrupting the learning of hundreds of students.
But amidst that scene of devastation, another image has shone: The source of positive energy from humanity and community responsibility is spreading.
As soon as the flood receded, hundreds of people, from teachers, parents to soldiers and police, were racing against time, urgently clearing mud, repairing classrooms, and setting tables, so that the opening drum would still resound on time and keep the learning flow for students in flooded areas intact.
They work continuously, regardless of electricity, water, or phone signal. Without waiting for favorable circumstances to act, everyone understands that as the day passes, it is getting closer and closer to the risk of students having to take a long day off from school.
Another valuable point is the proactive attitude in the midst of difficulties of teachers. When the damage was still unending, schools immediately prepared a list of necessary items, calling for support from the community, businesses, and charitable organizations.
They act to commit to "not letting students lack textbooks" not only as a straightforward statement but must become a reality as soon as possible.
The fierce flood swept away many things of teachers and students, of people in the communes of the West of Nghe An, but could not sweep away their faith and will. The image of teachers and the community in the flooded areas standing up right before the mud was even leached, to first ensure that their children's learning process was not interrupted, is a vivid lesson in determination and will.
The support at this time is not only to overcome the consequences, but also to instil in the hearts of students the belief that all challenges can be overcome if everyone knows how to hold hands to move forward.
The upcoming opening day in mountainous schools in the West of Nghe An will have a special meaning. It is not only a ceremony to open the school year, but a milestone in the journey to rise after challenges.
The school drum will then resound as an affirmation: No matter how severe the flood is, the will to learn and the spirit to overcome difficulties will remain intact. And that spirit will accompany them throughout their learning journey, become their luggage so that in the future, they will know how to overcome the "floods" of their own lives.
