In a devastating incident that has left the nation of Guyana in shock, a tragic fire broke out at the Mahdia Secondary School’s female dormitory, claiming the lives of 20 middle-aged children. The incident occurred late Sunday evening and extended into Monday, leaving several others injured or in critical condition. The entire country is in mourning, with the prime minister enacting three days of national mourning while investigations are underway to determine the cause of the fire.
President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali wasted no time in responding to the tragedy. He travelled to Mahdia, Region Eight, to meet with the families and victims affected by the fire. Joined by a ministerial team, the president conveyed his deepest condolences to the grieving families. He assured them that all necessary personnel were promptly mobilized for the rescue operation as soon as they were notified of the tragedy.
According to the latest reports, 59 girls stayed in the dormitories at the time of the incident. Fortunately, three girls had gone home for the weekend, leaving 56 girls in the rooms when the fire broke out. Tragically, thirteen girls and a young boy lost their lives at the dormitory, while five others died at the Mahdia Hospital.
Amidst the heartbreaking loss of life, several children sustained injuries. Six were airlifted to Georgetown in the early morning hours for urgent medical attention, while seventeen others remain hospitalized at the Mahdia Hospital. The medical staff is working tirelessly to provide the necessary care and support to those injured, and the nation is united in praying for their swift recovery.
The severity of the tragedy necessitates DNA analysis to identify the thirteen female victims who perished at the dormitory. The Government of Guyana has contacted regional and international partners to seek the required support for this process. They remain optimistic that the support will be received by the end of the day, bringing some measure of closure to the grieving families.
President Ali has received numerous condolences and support from leaders across the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and international partners. These messages convey their government’s and people’s love and prayers during this difficult time. The solidarity and compassion demonstrated by the global community provide solace to the families affected by this tragedy.
As the investigations continue, the nation stands in solidarity with the families who have lost their loved ones. The tragic fire at Mahdia Secondary School has shaken the country to its core, prompting a collective reflection on educational institutions’ safety measures and emergency response protocols. It is imperative that comprehensive reviews and necessary actions be taken to prevent such devastating incidents in the future.
In this time of profound grief, the people of Guyana stand united, offering support, strength, and prayers to the families and friends who this unfathomable loss has shattered. May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace, and may their memories be a source of inspiration for a safer and more compassionate future.
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