Two maritime schools in Fiji’s Northern Division are still functioning without proper classrooms, several years after suffering damage from natural disasters. Laucala District School in Dreketi Village on Qamea Island was heavily impacted by a landslide in December 2016, while Yadua Village School on Yadua Island faced destruction from Tropical Cyclone Yasa in 2020.
Since these events, students have been learning in temporary shelters, such as village halls and community centers, while awaiting the construction of adequate classroom facilities. School management teams have made interim arrangements for the students as they await assistance from the Ministry of Education.
Selina Kuruleca, the Permanent Secretary for Education, has confirmed that the budget for the 2024-2025 financial year includes plans to rebuild classrooms at these institutions. However, she mentioned there are logistical difficulties in transporting building materials to the schools located on the islands.
“We are working with other government ministries to ensure this is done promptly, as the barge must be able to reach these schools,” Ms. Kuruleca stated. She also expressed a desire, shared by the ministry and the affected communities, to see children no longer studying in temporary tents.
The ministry is collaborating with local communities and corporate organizations that have offered support for the rehabilitation efforts.
Muniappa Goundar, the general secretary of the Fiji Teachers Union, criticized the delays, arguing that the Ministry should have arranged assistance sooner. “It shouldn’t take four years to organize a barge. We’re already in the third term, and students and teachers are preparing for exams,” he pointed out. Despite the setbacks, Mr. Goundar expressed gratitude towards the school management and community members for their efforts in establishing temporary learning environments, highlighting their role in ensuring the continuity of education for the children.
Ms. Kuruleca also confirmed that there are no other schools in the Northern Division with outstanding damage from natural disasters.