Deuba District School is celebrating an impressive milestone this year, marking 118 years of dedicated service to education in the Deuba region. Established in 1906, this institution stands as one of the oldest schools within the Serua province and has shaped the educational landscape for generations.
Reama Pareti, a celebrated educator and an alumna of the school, emphasizes the importance of Deuba District School (DDS) as a rich source of both secular and traditional knowledge. Earlier this week, the Sunday Times team visited Deuba to attend the school’s awards ceremony. During this visit, they had the privilege of speaking with Mrs. Pareti, unveiling the school’s profound connection with the Serua community.
Mrs. Pareti recalls the school’s inception, designed to educate the children of various villages, including Vunibau, Sauniveiuto, Sadro, and Nasavu, in addition to serving civil servant families stationed at Naitonitoni. Reflecting on her time as a student starting in 1969, she fondly remembers her first teacher, underscoring the profound impact of dedicated educators on her life and career.
Over the years, Deuba District School has produced a wealth of alumni who have excelled in various fields, including politics, medicine, and sports, with notable graduates such as the late government minister Joketani Cokanasiga and rugby star Waisea Nayacalevu.
Significantly, Mrs. Pareti points out that the school is committed to preserving cultural and traditional knowledge amid a semi-urban setting. Teachers at DDS play a key role in imparting both academic knowledge and cultural heritage to students. Despite some challenges, like ensuring students maintain their cultural identity in the face of urban influences, the school thrives on the support of families, many of whom are rooted in older generations who value iTaukei culture.
While acknowledging a trend where some local parents prefer nearby schools for their children, Mrs. Pareti remains optimistic. She believes that as DDS continues to focus on promoting cultural education, it will attract more students. The alumni association is working on a five-year plan that includes improving facilities and enhancing literacy programs to ensure students can navigate the complexities of the modern world more effectively.
During the awards ceremony, Reverend Aisea Rarokoliwa encouraged students to uphold honesty and integrity, reminding them of the importance of moral values amidst modern challenges such as social media influences. He shared a personal story reflecting these values, reinforcing the school’s commitment to fostering character alongside academic excellence.
In essence, Deuba District School not only commemorates its long history but also looks forward to shaping the future for its students, blending tradition with modern learning to empower the next generation.
This celebration serves as a testament to the school’s enduring commitment to its values and its role in the community, highlighting education’s continued importance in personal and communal growth.
Overall, the spirit of hope and resilience is evident, as Deuba District School continues to adapt and thrive, ensuring its legacy endures for the years to come.
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