Posted: Monday 6 September 2010
High School pupil in Pakistan rescue effort
High School pupil Matthew Wood has been sharing his experiences of the relief effort in Pakistan, after he was caught up in the flooding during a summer trip.
17-year-old Matthew, who was in the area as part of a British Schools Exploring Society expedition, had intended to spend the five-week trip climbing and carrying out scientific studies. However, after the flooding began, Matthew’s team switched their efforts to supporting the local rescue attempt.
The students carried out tasks ranging from rebuilding bridges and repairing irrigation systems, vital in keeping the village supplied with safe drinking water, to helping to provide medical assistance and information.
“We saw at first hand how the flooding directly affected people’s lives,” said Matthew, who has been sharing his experiences at Assembly. The School has held collections in support of the Pakistan Flood Appeal, and donations from staff and pupils are already approaching £1500.
It is estimated more than 2000 people have died in the floods, and over a million homes have been destroyed, with over 20 million people injured or homeless.
A full report of Matthew’s efforts, in his own words, will be published shortly.
Pictured: Matthew in action during the relief effort.