Students at Nailagobokala Primary School in the Naitasiri highlands have endured a dangerous trek to school for the past four years. Following the washout of an old culvert on their access road, these students resorted to using bamboo rafts to cross a river, which could reach depths of up to knee-deep.
Concerned for the safety of their children, the villagers of Nadovu took matters into their own hands. Despite the community’s repeated requests for help from the government, Ratu Solomoni Naiqua, the school manager, stated that they received no assistance.
“For the past five years, we’ve witnessed the daily dangers faced by our children as they traverse the river to attend school,” Mr. Naiqua remarked.
In response to the lack of support, the community and the school committee initiated a fundraising campaign to construct a new bridge. This effort, motivated by parents aiming to provide their children with safer access to education, showcased the community’s solidarity.
Over the last three months, the villagers and the Parents-Teachers Association managed to raise $9,000. Their hard work and collaboration led to the successful construction of the new bridge, significantly enhancing the students’ daily commute.
“I truly appreciate the dedication of the parents,” Mr. Naiqua expressed, highlighting the community’s remarkable impact despite limited resources.
The new bridge was officially inaugurated last Friday.