Two maritime schools in Fiji’s Northern Division are still functioning without adequate classrooms, several years after being severely affected by natural disasters. The Laucala District School in Dreketi Village, Qamea Island, suffered significant damage from a landslide in December 2016, while the Yadua Village School on Yadua Island faced destruction during Tropical Cyclone Yasa in 2020.
Students at both schools have been utilizing temporary facilities, such as village halls and community centers, as they wait for proper classroom construction. School management teams have implemented interim solutions as they seek assistance from the Ministry of Education.
Selina Kuruleca, the Permanent Secretary for Education, stated that the budget for the 2024-2025 fiscal year includes funding for rebuilding classrooms at these institutions. She acknowledged the logistical difficulties in transporting building materials to the islands. “We are working with other government ministries to ensure this happens promptly, as the barge must be capable of reaching these schools,” Ms. Kuruleca explained.
She emphasized the ministry’s commitment, alongside local communities, to prevent students from continuing their studies in tents. Collaborative efforts with corporate organizations are also in motion to facilitate the rehabilitation.
Muniappa Goundar, the general secretary of the Fiji Teachers Union, expressed frustration over the delay, asserting that more timely arrangements should have been made. “It shouldn’t take four years to organize a barge. We are already in the third term, and both students and teachers are preparing for exams,” he noted.
Despite the ongoing issues, Mr. Goundar recognized and appreciated the efforts of school management and villagers in creating temporary learning environments, ensuring educational continuity for the children. Ms. Kuruleca further confirmed that no other schools in the Northern Division are left with unresolved damage from past natural disasters.