The Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro, announced that a recent examination of schools revealed that several do not possess valid land leases. During his presentation in Parliament, he stated that the Ministry is collaborating with relevant stakeholders to resolve this problem.
Radrodro explained, “During our school visitations across Fiji, it was discovered that some schools lacked valid land leases. The Ministry of Education is currently working with the TLTB and other stakeholders to establish land leases for the affected schools as part of the mandatory requirements for rehabilitation assistance.”
He highlighted Matuku Secondary School as an example of a school facing land lease challenges. The school was involved in setting up a junior secondary school in 1967; however, the project remains incomplete. Forms EA2 and EA3 have been provided to the interim school committee for further action, and the secondary school will be included in the lease for Ratu Mocevakaca Primary School while efforts are made to secure a lease for their secondary school.
Radrodro expressed gratitude for the support Fiji has received from various development partners, humanitarian organizations, and financial institutions over the years. “This assistance is invaluable, as it has significantly contributed to enhancing our recovery and rehabilitation initiatives.”
He acknowledged the strengthening of the Vuvale partnership, noting the support from DFAT during TC Yasa, as well as assistance from the embassy of Japan, MFAT, UAE, the government of Indonesia, UNICEF, Save the Children, and many others not specifically mentioned.