Indian Peacekeepers Build School in Congo with Voluntary Contribution from Their Salaries
Since its induction into to Rutshuru Territory of DR Congo for peacekeeping mission in Jul 2010, the Peacekeepers of Indian Battalion-2 have been gallantly working for ushering peace into their part of Democratic Republic of Congo and also for the economic upliftment of the populace. In a bid to do their bit for the Congolese nationals, Indian peacekeepers have constructed the first ever school for Specially–Abled Children in Rutshuru Territory. The building was inaugurated by Brigadier General CP Mohanty, Commander North Kivu Brigade. Mr Justin Mukanya, Administrator, Rutshuru and many other government officials who were also present during the prestigious function.
The effort is exceptional and deserves a standing ovation for the sheer fact that it has been constructed exclusively out of voluntary contributions from the Indian peacekeepers who struck a chord of compassion with the local populace and gave them the invaluable gift of humanity in form of this beautiful school. The large hearted contribution not only provided for the construction of three class rooms and a staff-room for the school, but also catered for sports items, office equipments, uniforms and stationery for all the 250 specially-abled children registered with the Deaf and Dumb Association in the city.
The inauguration ceremony also witnessed the distribution of stationery items and sports equipments to ten other local schools. The Specially-Abled children expressed their gratitude by performing a traditional dance in front of the spellbound audience.
The principal of the school, Miss Katungo Pascaline praised the altruistic efforts of the Indian Peacekeepers and commented, "With this unselfish act done for the welfare of these children, the troops of INDBATT-2 have surely left an indelible mark in the hearts of the people of Rutshuru, which is here to stay for generations to come".
While operating in a fragile atmosphere with poorly defined ceasefire lines, the contingent has been able to uphold the mandate of UN and still create a place in the hearts of the locals with professional handling of crisis situation and humane approach to the problems of locals. The success of the Indian contingent lies in this very balancing act.