Special residential school to come up for cancer-affected children

The State government has taken steps to start a separate free residential school in Bengaluru city for cancer-affected children.

During an interative session at The Hindu office here on Thursday, Minister for School Education Madhu Bangarappa said that this will be the first residential school in the country, particularly for these children.

“Around 3.5 acres of land has already been identified for the school near Kidwai Memorial Institute of Oncology, and the process of handing over the land is under way. Here, a school, a hospital, and accommodation for parents will be provided under one roof. The children will be provided free food, clothing, and accommodation, and students from class 1 to 12 will be accommodated,” he said, adding that the school will be started from the current academic year.

“There are about 3,500 children suffering from cancer across the State, and if the disease is detected early, it can be completely cured. Children who come from outer districts and rural areas for cancer treatment do not have proper facilities. Due to this, most of them do not receive treatment,” he said.

“Since children lose their hair during the treatment, they feel uncomfortable attending classes. Therefore, if they are enrolled in the residential school, they can stay with their parents until they are cured. Teachers will be appointed through non-governmental organizations, and doctors, nurses, and medical staff will be appointed by the government for treatment,” he said.