A total of $33 million has been allocated for Fiji’s social infrastructure program.
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, stated that an infrastructure audit currently in progress would identify the needs of numerous schools across the country.
“By having this evidence base, we will be better equipped to make prioritised decisions about support that benefits as many children in Fiji as possible,” he said.
Australian High Commissioner to Fiji, Ewen McDonald, emphasized the importance of access to quality education, noting that Australia sees great value in investing in education to ensure a brighter future for Fiji’s future leaders.
“Education is the cornerstone of any thriving society,” Mr. McDonald said. “It equips individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to drive economic growth, fosters innovation, and promotes social cohesion.”
The new infrastructure program is part of the renewed and elevated Vuvale Partnership, an agreement built on mutual trust, respect, and a deep commitment to collaboration between Australia and Fiji for regional peace and prosperity.
The program will build on the findings of a comprehensive infrastructure audit that is currently underway. The audit is assessing 86 schools in Suva and Nausori to identify critical issues such as classroom overcrowding and priority maintenance needs.