Education Minister Aseri Radrodro has called on the residents of Naroi Village on Moala Island in Lau to unite as a community to enhance the educational opportunities for children. During a visit to the village, Mr. Radrodro highlighted that there are approximately 13,000 teachers across Fiji serving in primary, secondary, and early childhood education institutions, emphasizing the need to prioritize their education in light of a concerning increase in school dropouts.
“We encourage students and teachers to utilize the initiatives and resources provided by the Government,” he stated. He pointed out that the Ministry of Education is the largest government ministry and has received the highest allocation from the budget announced by Finance Minister Biman Prasad.
Mr. Radrodro stressed the importance of teachers fulfilling their responsibilities to ensure children receive quality education. He called for collaboration among teachers, villagers, parents, village chiefs, police, and churches to support children in accessing the education they deserve and elevating educational standards in Fiji.
“There is a growing issue with school dropouts in Fiji, and we urge everyone to contribute to the welfare of every child regarding education,” he added. The Government is implementing initiatives like the TSLS free loan schemes and expanding vocational training institutions to create further educational pathways for children.
“I urge everyone, not just those in Moala Island but also those we have visited or will visit, to think of our children,” he concluded.