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Ceiling collapse at San Lorenzo art institute sparks safety concerns
๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡พ Paraguay /Culture & Society

Ceiling collapse at San Lorenzo art institute sparks safety concerns

From ABC Color · () Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified Context piece
  • Relatives of students at the Municipal Institute of Art (IMA) in San Lorenzo reported a ceiling collapse in a dance classroom.
  • The incident, which occurred on July 20, resulted in minor injuries to two students.
  • Parents are concerned about the ongoing precarious conditions, including lack of electricity and poor sanitation, and the cost of uniforms and makeup.

Families of students at the Municipal Institute of Art (IMA) in San Lorenzo have raised serious concerns about the deteriorating conditions at the institution, culminating in a ceiling collapse incident that injured two students.

The incident occurred on July 20 during a dance practice when a section of the classroom's ceiling gave way. Two students sustained injuries to their backs and hands as a result of the falling debris. Relatives expressed dismay that the affected area has not yet been fully repaired, and students continue to use the facilities despite the evident risks.

Adding to the concerns, several classrooms reportedly lack electricity, forcing students to conduct their artistic and dance activities in inadequate conditions. The state of the institution's restrooms also drew criticism, with parents demanding necessary repairs to ensure student safety.

It is a shame for us that our children are exposed to these situations. They were practicing and a part of the ceiling detached. It is totally unacceptable.

โ€” Affected parentA parent expresses frustration and concern over the dangerous conditions at the Municipal Institute of Art.

"It is a shame for us that our children are exposed to these situations. They were practicing and a part of the ceiling detached. It is totally unacceptable," one affected parent stated.

Beyond the structural issues, parents also questioned the cost and content of student uniforms, which they claim bear promotional material, and the mandatory G. 120,000 fee for artistic makeup used in student performances. While the Directorate of Culture acknowledged that some areas have been addressed and explained that teachers organize uniforms and makeup for unified presentations, parents remain concerned about the overall safety and financial burden associated with the IMA.

The repair of the ceiling was carried out in certain areas and action was taken as appropriate. The organization has always been like this. Everything has a cost and it is organized so that the students can look good in presentations.

โ€” Virgilio SilveroVirgilio Silvero from the Directorate of Culture addresses the repairs and the organization of uniforms and makeup.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Color in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.