Nabua Primary School (NPS), located just outside Suva, is currently grappling with serious infrastructure challenges that pose risks to the safety and education of its 900 students. The school’s crumbling conditions have sparked urgent discussions about public education facilities in urban Fiji.
Ravu Dansey, the school manager, voiced his concerns about the deteriorating campus, attributing the situation to a lack of funding for essential repairs. He described the school’s aging infrastructure, stating that despite some help through donations, these contributions only suffice for temporary fixes, leaving the school struggling financially.
Visible signs of neglect at NPS include leaking roofs, cracked floors, rusting playground equipment, and overcrowded classrooms. Mr. Dansey highlighted the difficult learning environment, with classrooms filled to capacity, where students often struggle to concentrate amid the noise generated by fans trying to provide relief from the heat. This has transformed the school from a place of education into one primarily focused on survival.
Despite these difficulties, the resilience of the students shines through as they are dedicated to their learning and view education as a pathway to a brighter future. Mr. Dansey noted the enthusiasm of their new management team, which brings innovative ideas to the table, yet they urgently require support to address the school’s pressing issues.
In response, Education Minister Aseri Radrodro acknowledged the challenges facing the school and urged the administration to take a more proactive approach to improving conditions while reminding them of their responsibility in managing upkeep. He also confirmed the Ministry of Education’s willingness to help schools in need.
However, even with previous assistance, including an $80,000 donation from the Korean Embassy in 2022, the situation remains largely unchanged, revealing a more extensive problem that requires attention. In addition, Minister for Industrial Relations Agni Deo Singh confirmed that his team had visited the school for an inspection and will provide a report on the findings.
Humanitarian organizations have expressed grave concerns about the school’s environment. Save the Children Fiji has labeled the situation as “unacceptable,” emphasizing the health and safety risks for the students. CEO Shairana Ali stated that all children deserve a safe learning environment and that the current conditions, lacking basic sanitation and adequate resources, are unacceptable.
This situation at Nabua Primary School underscores a broader national concern regarding deteriorating infrastructure and overcrowding in urban schools across the country. As the government prepares its next budget, the demand for prioritizing improvements to educational facilities is more critical than ever.
In summary, while Nabua Primary School faces significant challenges, the situation allows for awareness and potential reforms in the education sector. This crisis could serve as a catalyst for much-needed investment in school infrastructure, ensuring safer environments for students and teachers alike. There is hope that increased awareness will lead to dedicated efforts from government officials, local authorities, and community stakeholders to enhance the quality of education in Fiji.
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