Zonal Education Officer (ZEO) Nubra, Sonam Dolkar, conducted an official visit to the remote and strategically significant Middle School Tongstet on October 10, located near the Siachen border. The visit aimed to assess the school’s functioning, address ongoing educational needs, and engage with the local community.

Upon arrival, ZEO Dolkar observed that all teachers were present and actively participating in a productive meeting with the School Management Committee (SMC) members and parents. Discussions primarily focused on preparations for the upcoming Term II examinations. She praised the active involvement and sincere support demonstrated by the parents toward the school’s initiatives.

A notable development discussed during the meeting was the joint decision by the headmaster, staff, parents, and SMC to establish a residential hostel for students until the completion of Term II exams. This initiative, aimed at ensuring student safety and convenience, was highly commended by the ZEO.

The school was found to be well-managed, with all children from the village—including children of teachers—enrolled. MS Tongstet also functions as a central school for three feeder schools, accommodating students from these institutions after they complete Grade 5.

During her visit, SMC members and parents expressed a strong demand for upgrading MS Tongstet to a residential high school. Currently, students must relocate to the NSCBAV Tribal Hostel in Diskit for further studies beyond Grade 8. The community emphasized that upgrading the school would provide a safe and supportive learning environment and secure better educational prospects for their children.

The visit highlighted the community’s commitment to accessible, quality education and their active role in supporting the school’s development.