In a pivotal effort to enhance accessibility to education for students in remote areas, Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro has officially delivered a 23ft fiberglass half-cabin boat, equipped with a 40hp outboard motor, to Rewa Secondary School and St. Joseph’s Primary School. This $24,000 vessel, fully financed by the Ministry of Education, fulfills a longstanding commitment to support educational facilities in hard-to-reach regions.
During the handover ceremony, Minister Radrodro emphasized the Coalition Government’s promise to improve transportation options for students, particularly those living in maritime areas. “This boat is a vital step in not only enhancing transport but also ensuring these students have improved access to quality education,” he stated.
The operational costs, including fuel and maintenance of the new boat, will be covered by the Free Education Grant (FEG), while school management will be responsible for its oversight. The minister reinforced the initiative’s broader objective of providing equitable opportunities throughout Fiji’s educational landscape, regardless of geographical challenges.
“In our efforts to prioritize the needs of students in remote locations, we are investing in boats, engines, and transport assistance, ensuring that no child is left behind,” he added.
This significant gesture reflects the government’s ongoing dedication to enhancing educational and transport services. By making quality education more accessible, it represents a positive stride toward balancing educational opportunities across Fiji, reinforcing the importance of community involvement in maintaining these resources.
The demand for such initiatives is echoed in recent developments, like the delivery of a similar fiber boat and engine to Navesi Primary School in Udu Village, underscoring a substantial commitment by the government toward improving educational access for all children, particularly those in isolated areas.
Overall, these enhancements illustrate a hopeful future for educational transportation in Fiji, aiming to bridge gaps and uplift communities.
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