SIHAT – Schoolgirls in Sihat were terrified by the presence of snakes in their schools at Al-Ghirain, Sihat, which are close to the Dammam central nursery and farms. Students of elementary and intermediate schools in the area who attended classes were on edge while many others preferred to stay home. The intermediate school principal warned the students to take precautions before sitting for classes. Those included ensuring that their desks are free from snakes. They are advised to take similar cautions while using toilets and in the school's playground. The students were also told to vigorously shake their abayas before putting them on and keep their school bags shut when not in use. Blind students are more at risk due to their handicap. One mother said that this was not something new, as snakes had previously appeared in the school, and complaints were raised to the education directorate, but no action was taken, and in her opinion none will be taken until a student is fatally harmed by a venomous snakebite. Another parent asked why the school was not inspected to exterminate the snakes before the start of schools, and if any harm is inflicted on the students, the education directorate will have to bear the full responsibility. Attempts were made to contact the education directorate spokesman, Khalid Al Hammad, but he did not return the call. – SG
