Nabua Primary School (NPS), located on the outskirts of Suva, is currently experiencing severe structural issues that pose significant risks to the education and safety of its 900 students. The school’s declining conditions have sparked urgent discussions about the state of public educational facilities in urban areas of Fiji.
School manager Ravu Dansey expressed deep concerns regarding the campus’s deteriorating state, emphasizing that insufficient funding has hindered essential repairs. “The infrastructure is aging, and we simply don’t have the resources for all the necessary work,” Dansey stated. Donations have helped, but they only address immediate issues, leaving the school in a perpetual struggle for financial support.
Visible signs of neglect include leaking roofs, cracked floors, rusted playground equipment, and overcrowded classrooms. Dansey noted, “The classrooms are overcrowded, with children packed shoulder to shoulder, struggling to hear over fans that barely stir the stifling air.” Despite these challenges, the students’ dedication to their education remains unwavering, as they view learning as a path to a brighter future.
Dansey highlighted the need for support from the community and government. The Education Minister, Aseri Radrodro, acknowledged the pressing situation and called on the school’s administration to take more proactive steps while reminding them that maintenance is primarily their responsibility. He emphasized the Ministry of Education’s readiness to assist those in need but underscored the importance of the management leading improvement efforts.
Past assistance, including an $80,000 donation from the Korean Embassy in 2022, has not resulted in significant improvements, indicating the severity of the issue. Meanwhile, Minister for Industrial Relations Agni Deo Singh recently inspected the school and is expected to release a report on its condition.
Humanitarian organizations have also raised alarms about the state of the school. Save the Children Fiji criticized the situation as “unacceptable,” highlighting the serious health and safety risks posed to students. Chief Executive Officer Shairana Ali stated, “Every child deserves access to a safe learning environment,” pointing out that the neglected facilities endanger not only students but also teachers and parents.
The challenges faced by Nabua Primary School reflect a broader national concern regarding deteriorating infrastructure and overcrowding in urban schools across Fiji. As the government prepares its upcoming budget, prioritizing educational facilities is critical to safeguard the future of these students.
Amid these struggles, the positive outlook lies in the commitment of the community and newer management to advocate for change. With proper support, Nabua Primary School could transform into a safer and more effective learning environment, ultimately benefiting the students and the entire community.
This pressing situation may encourage a wave of support from the local community and stakeholders focused on improving educational facilities, demonstrating that with collective effort, change is possible.
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