Motukana Primary School, located in the highlands of Navosa/Nadroga and about 120 kilometers from Sigatoka town, will soon have solar lights and electricity supply.
The school, which has 85 students, is one of the institutions being assisted under the Solar Rooftop project.
Head of School, Isimeli Druavesi, expressed gratitude to the International Solar Alliance (ISA) for making this possible.
“With the assistance provided by ISA, the school now plans to introduce e-learning technologies for its students,” said Mr. Druavesi.
“We will establish a mini computer lab to help students and teachers connect with the rest of the world and adopt modern teaching methods.”
He added that currently, they are unable to offer evening or extra classes due to the unavailability of lights after dark.
“Students in remote areas are always denied the opportunity to enhance their literacy skills through evening classes. Proper lighting systems made possible by electricity create a comfortable and safe learning space. This contributes to a more engaging and productive learning environment, allowing students to focus on their studies without distractions.”
“Access to electricity enables schools to offer a wider range of online courses, virtual field trips, and collaborative projects, enriching students’ educational experiences and preparing them for success in an increasingly digital world,” Mr. Druavesi added.
ISA’s programme head for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Sandeep Kaur Singh, said the lack of electricity in remote schools can lead to educational inequality for students in those areas.
“One way to help bridge this gap is by implementing solutions that provide sustainable and reliable electricity supply to remote schools, such as solar power systems,” she said.
Through the ISA’s Solar Rooftop Project, solar panels will be installed on school buildings to generate electricity, ensuring that students have access to technology and benefit from a modern and well-rounded education.
“It’s crucial to advocate for improved infrastructure and resources for remote schools to ensure that all students have equal opportunities to learn and succeed. Working together as a community, government, and stakeholders can significantly impact addressing education inequalities caused by the lack of electricity in remote schools.”
Meanwhile, consultants contracted by the ISA recently visited the school to carry out assessments and determine the solar energy requirements of the school and the teachers’ quarters.
The consultants also surveyed the area and collected relevant data, including daily average hours of sunlight, the number of classrooms to have access to electricity, electrical equipment to be used and installed, and provisions for e-learning opportunities.
If you have feedback, please contact waisean@fijisun.com.fj