Japan’s Ambassador to Fiji, Michii Rokuichiro, encouraged students at Dreketi Central College (DCC) in Macuata to embrace learning during a visit on Friday. He emphasized the importance of education and the opportunity for academic growth as the college celebrated the opening of three new classrooms funded by the Japanese Government.
The construction project was financed through the Japanese Government Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) program, with a total investment of $333,784. In addition to the classrooms, the college received three tables and chairs for teachers, as well as 120 new desks and chairs for students.
Ambassador Rokuichiro urged students to take responsibility for the resources provided and use them effectively. He reaffirmed the strong bilateral relationship between Japan and Fiji, highlighting that educational support is a key area of cooperation.
Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, expressed pride in witnessing the development of his former school and acknowledged the ambassador’s contributions. He noted that the new classrooms would significantly benefit all students at the college.
School manager, Savenaca Vakacego, who has held the position for seven years, shared his determination to construct cyclone-resilient classrooms. He recognized the timely support from the Japanese government, stating, “Your assistance will never be forgotten by our vanua, students, teachers, and parents.”
Mr. Vakacego reflected on the patience needed from the project’s inception until its realization. The school currently has an enrollment of 364 students from Years 9 to 13, and it also operates a technical college.