A new social infrastructure program has been launched to build new classrooms and address urgent maintenance needs for schools along the Suva-Nausori corridor.
The program, funded by the Australian government, was launched by the Australian High Commissioner, alongside Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad and Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro, at Jagindra Singh Primary School in Tamavua, Suva this morning.
Prof. Prasad announced that the $33 million social infrastructure program will assist the government in building school infrastructure within the Suva-Nausori corridor.
An audit is currently underway on 86 schools to assess their specific needs.
Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro noted that the program will address the high teacher-to-student ratio in schools. “All buildings will be category 5 cyclone certified, constructed using locally sourced materials, and equipped with rainwater harvesting systems and solar power.”
Australian High Commissioner to Fiji Ewen McDonald emphasized that the program aims to provide safe and conducive learning environments where students can thrive, and teachers are supported with the necessary facilities to deliver quality education.
Additionally, the Australian government will offer technical support to the Ministry of Education’s asset management unit as part of the program.