The 2026 academic year has kicked off in Suva, bringing a wave of emotions, excitement, and determination for many families. The roads along the Suva corridor were bustling with parents and guardians heading to schools, creating a lively and joyful atmosphere outside the school gates. Amidst the morning rush, smiles, hugs, and encouraging words filled the air as families took a moment to capture their children’s first day with photos.
Viniana Wailo, a mother of twins, shared her experience of the morning. Traveling all the way from Lami, she emphasized the effort involved in preparing her children for school. “This morning they kept telling me to give them their bus card. It took quite a bit of preparation, especially getting two kids ready at the same time, but I’m just glad we made it here today,” she said.
Another heartfelt story came from a grandmother who has been raising her granddaughter since she was just three months old. Watching her beloved granddaughter step into Class One was an emotional experience. “My advice to her is she has to listen in school, be good to the teacher, show respect to the teacher, and be good to her friends,” she shared, reflecting the wisdom of experience.
At Veuto Primary School, a dedicated father stood patiently after finishing a night shift to ensure he wouldn’t miss his daughter’s first day. “I just got out of work and came straight here to see my daughter off. I’m the sole breadwinner, and I work so I can witness moments like this. She’s in Class One,” he remarked, showcasing the lengths parents go to support their children’s education.
As schools reopen, parents throughout the capital express that preparations for this day started as early as Christmas, highlighting the high value placed on education and the aspirations they hold for their children in the year to come. The communal effort and love established among families set a hopeful tone for the academic year ahead.
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