Under the Fiji–Australia Vuvale Partnership, the two nations are collaborating to deliver modern and resilient school infrastructure aimed at supporting the expanding communities in the Suva–Nausori corridor. Through the Fiji Social Infrastructure Program (FSIP), work is currently underway on the designs for two key projects: the construction of a new Davuilevu Secondary School and the significant refurbishment of Suva Primary School.
The Davuilevu Secondary School, which presently shares its facilities with the primary school, faces challenges like overcrowding that restrict student enrollment. To address this issue, Australia is backing the development of a standalone, purpose-built secondary school tailored to modern educational standards and the increasing population demands in the Davuilevu region. The initial design concepts focus on creating durable and climate-resilient infrastructure that will benefit students and the community for years to come. These designs have been shaped through discussions with the Ministry of Education and various community stakeholders, emphasizing gender-responsive planning and accessible layouts for students with disabilities.
Simultaneously, a revitalization of Suva Primary School—one of the oldest institutions in the area—is also taking place. Australia is facilitating a phased modernization process that will introduce new classroom buildings, upgraded specialized learning spaces such as libraries and computer labs, as well as improved safety and accessibility features. This gradual approach ensures that educational activities can continue safely during construction, while the planned enhancements are set to extend the school’s lifespan and create environments that foster effective teaching, learning, and student well-being.
The identification of these projects stemmed from an evidence-based evaluation of schools in the Suva–Nausori corridor, which pinpointed issues such as overcrowding, aging infrastructure, and limited accessibility as significant areas of investment. By aligning these priorities with the educational goals of the Fijian government, Australia aims to allocate resources effectively to the schools that need them most.
FSIP is executed in partnership with the Ministry of Education and emphasizes the involvement of Fiji-registered consultants, contractors, and suppliers during the design and construction phases. This focus not only helps to bolster local capacity but also supports job creation and economic benefits within Fiji.
The new Davuilevu Secondary School and the renovations at Suva Primary School exemplify the tangible impacts of the Vuvale Partnership, showcasing the collaborative efforts of Fiji and Australia to foster safe, inclusive, and resilient learning environments for both present and future generations.
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