An article published on November 4, 1984, in The Fiji Times, highlighted a remarkable achievement by the young men of Lodoni in Tailevu, as they constructed their own school hall, signaling a significant shift towards self-reliance at Ratu Kadavulevu School. The initiative reflects the school’s commitment to becoming a self-sufficient and commercially viable institution.
The completion of the community hall, along with the establishment of a substantial 4,500-mound yaqona farm and diversification into cocoa and vanilla production, illustrates the ambitious plans for the school’s future development. School principal Amraiya Naidu emphasized that these self-help projects aim to engage students with the cash economy, instilling entrepreneurial spirit that may lead them to start their own ventures after graduation.
“The enthusiasm generated, hopefully, will get a number of them to start ventures when they leave here,” Naidu remarked. The community hall, which took five years to build by vocational students who dedicated two days each week to the project, was inaugurated by then-acting Prime Minister, Ratu David Toganivalu.
Ratu David expressed pride in the school’s proactive approach, noting, “It was pleasing to learn that RKS has not waited for the government to do everything, and the self-help scheme is precisely the kind that the government encouraged and tried to help, if at all possible.” He commended the students and educators for spending $35,000 less than the projected cost of $200,000 allocated by the government, highlighting it as a significant achievement amidst rising material costs.
The Prime Minister also acknowledged improvements in academic performance among Fijian students since independence, noting particularly remarkable enhancements among Indian students. “After a recent comprehensive examination, it was felt that concerted action was necessary and the government has responded accordingly,” he stated.
This initiative not only showcases the potential of community-led projects but also serves as an inspiring example of what can be accomplished through teamwork and determination. The efforts of Ratu Kadavulevu School demonstrate the power of self-reliance in education and the positive impact it can have on students’ futures.
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