Mrs Walker stands at the entrance of the Logwood Basic School in Yallahs, St Thomas, on Monday, at the end of the first school day. The school is in need of electricity, a bathroom door and other amenities. - Sheldon Williams

The Logwood Basic School in Yallahs, St Thomas, had a delayed start to the school year, two days late on Wednesday, as the institution is grappling with several inefficiences including the absence of electricity.

"There are so many needs that they couldn't open on time," Pastor Gloria Dickerson of the non-profit organisation, Friends of Jamaica Association, who is spearheading the support intiative, shared with THE STAR.

Close inspection of the facility by THE STAR revealed that the bathroom did not have a door to allow privacy and the furniture including desks and chairs were worn and torn.

An overwhelming heat was also felt inside the building as the lack of electricity and the accompanying humidity led to a high level of discomfort.

It was obvious that proper ventilation was needed.

Therefore, the school is prioritising to have electricity installed forthwith which will cost about $30,000 to cover all the electrical requirements.

At the same time,the institution was also left somewhat exposed as there was a gap in the fencing that surrounds the facility.

Interestingly, the school was observed being painted at the end of the school day when THE STAR arrived.

The school's administration is also seeking help to furnish the playground which now only has a single swing.

THE STAR was told that only six pupils attended school on the day, even though the seating capacity is 26.

"Now it's time for us to bring back the school ... the children are in need of help," Dickerson asserted.

In a further plea for assistance, Dickerson explained, "We would love them to come in and do whatever they can to help ... we are asking everyone who is able to come in and help as a sponsor."

Anyone who can help the school board financially or in any other way, is being asked to contact Pastor Jennifer Kenton at 817-3767 or Thelma Ritchie at 706-9139 or 310-4579.

The bathroom at the Logwood Basic School is currently without a door. The school is appealing for assistance to have one installed.