Nabua Primary School (NPS), located on the outskirts of Suva, is grappling with severe infrastructure problems that threaten the safety and education of its 900 students. The situation at the school has raised pressing concerns regarding the state of public educational facilities in Fiji’s urban areas.
School manager Ravu Dansey has expressed deep worries about the school’s deteriorating conditions, highlighting how financial constraints have hindered their ability to carry out necessary repairs. “The infrastructure is aging, and we simply don’t have the resources for all the necessary work,” he stated. While some donations have provided temporary relief, they are insufficient for lasting improvements, leaving the school struggling to maintain a safe learning environment.
Several visible issues, including leaking roofs, cracked floors, and rusted playground equipment, reveal the extent of neglect. Overcrowded classrooms force children to sit shoulder to shoulder, making it difficult for them to hear lessons over the noise of aging fans.
Despite these challenges, the students are dedicated to their education, viewing it as a crucial step towards a brighter future. Mr. Dansey noted the school has a new management team with promising ideas, but he emphasized the urgent need for support.
In response to these concerns, Education Minister Aseri Radrodro acknowledged the school’s worsening state and urged the administration to take more proactive measures for its upkeep. He encouraged the management to seek assistance from the Ministry of Education.
Despite previous financial aid, such as an $80,000 contribution from the Korean Embassy in 2022, improvements remain minimal, illustrating the systemic issues that continue to plague the school. Additionally, Minister for Industrial Relations Agni Deo Singh confirmed that his team would conduct an inspection and provide a report on the situation.
Health and safety warnings have also been raised by humanitarian organizations like Save the Children Fiji, which called the school’s condition “unacceptable.” Chief executive officer Shairana Ali stated that every child deserves access to a safe learning environment, stressing the urgent need for government and community intervention to protect the welfare of children.
The challenges faced by Nabua Primary School reflect a broader national issue, as crumbling infrastructure and overcrowding in urban schools become more prevalent. As the government approaches its next budget, the critical need to prioritize educational facilities has never been more urgent.
This situation sheds light on the importance of community involvement and support for educational institutions. With increased awareness and action, there is hope for improving the state of schools like NPS, enabling students to learn in safe and conducive environments. Together, through collaboration from all stakeholders, we can work towards ensuring that every child has the opportunity for a quality education.
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