GEORGE TOWN: The Save Assumption School Joint Task Force is hoping that the Penang Education Department will immediately approve the registration of the pro tem board of governors for SK Assumption in Butterworth, in a bid to keep the school open.

       In a statement on Sunday (Jan 9), task force spokesman Vernon Fernandez said the pro tem board, which includes representatives from the parent-teacher association, alumni association, the landowner and the Diocese of Penang, was set up last year primarily as a legal platform to solve the issue of the school and its premises.

       Fernandez said the task force was formed after a meeting with education officials on Saturday (Jan 8) which discussed the upcoming closure of the school after 89 years, with effect from Feb 28.

       "The Save Assumption School Joint Task Force remains committed to ensuring that the well-being and welfare of the students remain a top priority.

       "It is seeking solutions that will allow them to finish their formative primary school years without any disruption or negative experience,” he said.

       In Saturday's meeting with state Education Department officials, Fernandez said, the attendees were informed that the school’s licence would be cancelled upon the closure as the private landowner (Sri Avenue Sdn Bhd) has asked for the return of the land and building "as soon as possible”. – Bernama