Motukana Primary School, situated in the highlands of Navosa/Nadroga and approximately 120 kilometers from Sigatoka town, is expected to soon benefit from solar lights and electricity.
The school, which caters to 85 students, has been selected to participate in the Solar Rooftop project. Head of School, Isimeli Druavesi, expressed gratitude to the International Solar Alliance (ISA) for making this possible.
“With ISA’s assistance, we plan to introduce e-learning technologies for our students,” said Mr. Druavesi. “We will establish a mini computer lab to help students and teachers connect with the world and adopt modern teaching methods.”
Mr. Druavesi noted that the absence of lights currently prevents them from offering evening or extra classes after dark. “Students in remote areas miss the chance to improve their literacy skills through evening classes,” he said. “Proper lighting systems provided by electricity create a comfortable and safe learning space. This contributes to a more engaging and productive learning environment, allowing students to focus on their studies without distractions.”
He further explained that access to electricity enables schools to provide a wider range of online courses, virtual field trips, and collaborative projects, thereby enriching educational experiences and preparing students for success in an increasingly digital world.
ISA’s program head for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Sandeep Kaur Singh, emphasized that the lack of electricity in remote schools can lead to education inequality for students in those areas. “One solution to bridge this gap is by implementing sustainable and reliable electricity supplies to remote schools, such as solar power systems,” she said. Through ISA’s Solar Rooftop Project, solar panels will be installed on school buildings to generate electricity, ensuring students have access to technology and benefit from a modern, well-rounded education.
Singh highlighted the importance of advocating for improved infrastructure and resources in remote schools to ensure all students have equal opportunities to learn and succeed. “Working together as a community, government, and stakeholders can significantly impact addressing education inequalities caused by the lack of electricity in remote schools,” she added.
Recently, consultants contracted by the ISA visited Motukana Primary School to conduct assessments and determine the school and teachers’ quarters’ solar energy requirements. They also surveyed the area and collected data on daily average hours of sunlight, the number of classrooms to be electrified, electrical equipment to be used and installed, and provisions for e-learning opportunities.