Nabua Primary School (NPS), located on the outskirts of Suva, is grappling with significant infrastructure challenges that threaten the safety and education of its 900 students. The conditions at the school have raised critical concerns about the state of public education facilities within Fiji’s urban centers.
School manager Ravu Dansey expressed deep worries about the deteriorating condition of the campus, attributing the issues to insufficient funding that has prevented the school from conducting necessary repairs. Despite receiving some donations, Mr. Dansey stated they are insufficient for comprehensive repairs, leaving the school in a precarious financial position.
Visible signs of neglect include leaking roofs, cracked floors, rusted playground equipment, and overcrowded classrooms. Mr. Dansey pointed out that classrooms are overcrowded, where children struggle to hear each other over the sound of barely functioning fans in a stifling environment. He emphasized that the school has shifted from a nurturing learning institution to one focused on merely surviving.
Nevertheless, the students remain dedicated to their education, viewing it as a gateway to better opportunities. Mr. Dansey noted that the newly formed management team is enthusiastic and brimming with fresh ideas, though he called for urgent support.
In response to the growing concerns, Education Minister Aseri Radrodro acknowledged the school’s degrading conditions and highlighted the importance of the school administration taking proactive measures. He reassured that the Ministry of Education is ready to assist schools in need, but emphasized that it is the management’s responsibility to lead improvement efforts.
Despite past assistance, including an $80,000 donation from the Korean Embassy in 2022, the lack of noticeable progress reflects a broader systemic issue. Minister for Industrial Relations Agni Deo Singh confirmed a recent inspection of the school and mentioned that a report would be forthcoming.
Humanitarian organizations, such as Save the Children Fiji, have raised alarms regarding the school’s condition, deeming it “unacceptable” and fraught with significant health and safety risks. They advocate for a safe learning environment for every child, stressing the urgency for intervention from the government and local authorities.
The struggles faced by Nabua Primary School are indicative of a national crisis, with reports of crumbling infrastructure and overcrowding becoming increasingly common in urban schools across the country. As the government approaches the next budget, prioritizing the enhancement of educational facilities becomes essential.
In light of these continued challenges, there remains hope in the form of community commitment and potential government action. With the right support and resources, there can be a significant turnaround in the conditions at Nabua Primary School, ultimately benefiting its students and the broader educational landscape in Fiji.
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