The newly launched Kavanagasau Sanatan Dharm Kindergarten, valued at $26,000, aims to create a central space for early learning and play for children in Kavanagasau and its neighboring communities.
The kindergarten, which officially opened earlier this month, was established thanks to a generous donation from the Tappoo Group of Companies. It is situated approximately 18 kilometers from Sigatoka and enhances the educational offerings of the school, which includes primary education from Years One to Eight and College from Years Nine to Thirteen.
Jitendra Kumar, the head of the school, expressed his gratitude towards the Tappoo Group during the opening ceremony, emphasizing the importance of the playcentre in nurturing the next generation. He noted that education extends beyond traditional classrooms, since it also includes environments that promote creativity and exploration.
“The grand opening of this Early Childhood Education (ECE) playcentre marks a significant advancement in promoting quality education within the Nadroga Navosa education district,” Mr. Kumar remarked.
This modern facility is designed to function as a focal point for early learning and play for local children. It is dedicated to the memory of the late Tappoo Kanji, a pioneering student of the school and a key figure in the Tappoo family’s heritage.
During the ceremony, Kanti Tappoo, chairperson of the Tappoo Group, shared an emotional reflection on his family’s longstanding connection to the school, which dates back to his father’s enrollment in 1933.
“This playcentre represents more than just a donation; it symbolizes our family’s bond with this community and highlights the significance of early education,” Mr. Tappoo stated.
The Tappoo Group’s involvement with the school extends beyond this recent project. Last year, the company contributed $12,500 worth of Information Technology equipment to develop the school’s computer lab, reaffirming their ongoing support for the rural educational institution.
Education Officer for Nadroga Navosa, Janice Nath, commended the Tappoo Group for their collaborative efforts in nurturing lifelong learners. She noted that the playcentre would benefit the children of Kavanagasau and would reflect the Ministry of Education’s commitment to fostering innovation and quality education.
“Early childhood education lays the groundwork for future learning, and this facility will foster a welcoming and student-friendly atmosphere,” Ms. Nath added.
The Kavanagasau Kindergarten ECE playcentre is set to transform the lives of its young students, providing them with opportunities for social, emotional, and physical growth in a supportive environment.
With assistance from the Tappoo Group, the school management committee, and the Ministry of Education, the playcentre is destined to become a vital part of community education. The event concluded with the unveiling of a plaque commemorating the collective effort behind this accomplishment and the community’s commitment to ensuring children receive the best possible educational foundation.
In addition, Kavanagasau Sanatan Dharam Primary School celebrated a remarkable achievement with a 100 percent pass rate in last year’s Fiji Eighth Year Examination, marking a second consecutive success in this regard.
Mr. Kumar highlighted that the same 100 percent pass rate was achieved in the 2022 examinations, attributing this success to the dedication of teachers and supportive parents. Lice Vuliasi, a diligent student from the Kavanagasau settlement, received the highest score.
He acknowledged the necessity of continuous parental support, and Mr. Kumar assured that they have addressed the weaknesses identified in 2023 to achieve quality results once again this year.
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