Catastrophic Aircraft Accident: Pupils were readying for tutoring post-lesson
In the aftermath of the devastating plane crash at Milestone School and College on July 21, 2025, the role of after-school coaching sessions has come under scrutiny. The sessions, which are attended by a significant portion of students, have been found to increase the number of students on campus beyond standard school hours.
Many students remained in the school's classrooms after regular classes ended around 1 pm, attending special coaching sessions recommended by teachers for those needing extra academic support. Reports suggest that about 60% to 80% of students typically stay back for these sessions due to their affordability compared to private tuition.
The tragic incident saw a fighter jet crashing into the Haidar Ali Building of the school, resulting in numerous injuries and fatalities. The proximity of many students to the school buildings during the coaching sessions or while waiting for their guardians exacerbated the human toll of the disaster.
A Milestone teacher, who wished to remain anonymous, confirmed that many victims were waiting for coaching sessions or their guardians when the crash occurred. Class 12 student Rajin Hossain stated that students attend the coaching sessions because they find them more affordable than private tuition, while Sabikun Nahar, the mother of two Milestone students, chose not to enroll them in the school's coaching.
Sabikun Nahar was already at the campus before 1 pm that day to pick up her children. However, had her son been in class, she might have lost him in the crash. Ayan, a student currently battling severe injuries with 45% of his body burned, was in the classroom for the school's special coaching when the crash happened.
The aircraft burst into flames, setting the building on fire. Sabikun Nahar was on her way to the campus gate when she heard the deafening sound of the crash. She quickly picked up her younger son from the Haidar Ali Building (the one that was hit) and went to another building to collect her elder son.
As of now, 29 people have died, and many others are in critical condition in hospitals according to government statements. The classes at the Haidar Ali Building ended at 1 pm on Monday for students of classes 3 to 5 in the Bangla version and classes 6 to 8 in the English version.
The school and the coaching sessions have faced criticism for contributing to the presence of many children at the site during the crash. The teacher also mentioned that class teachers sometimes recommend which students need coaching, raising questions about the necessity and potential consequences of these sessions.
This tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safety measures and the potential impact of routine practices on the lives of students. As investigations continue, the focus remains on providing support and care to the affected families and students.
- The aftermath of the Milestone School and College plane crash has led to discussions about the safety of education-and-self-development activities, as many students were attending after-school coaching sessions at the time of the tragedy.
- The general-news coverage emphasizes the role of these coaching sessions in contributing to the presence of students at the school beyond regular school hours, with reports suggesting that about 60% to 80% of students usually stay back for these sessions.
