Fiji Schools Unite Against Infestation: A Plan in Action

The Arya Pratinidhi Sabha in Fiji is taking proactive steps to combat a significant termite infestation affecting four schools under its management: Gurukul Primary School, Lautoka Arya Samaj Primary School, Pandit Vishnu Deo Memorial College, and Arya Kanya Pathshala in Ba. In their efforts to address this issue, the Sabha has submitted reports for grant assistance through the District Education Office and has consulted with the Minister for Education and the Finance Minister.

The extent of the damage varies across the schools, with Gurukul Primary School’s ablution block and six classrooms reported infested. For Pandit Vishnu Deo Memorial College, eight out of ten classroom blocks are severely damaged, while the Lautoka Arya Samaj Primary School’s office area and two adjacent classrooms have also suffered from infestations. Arya Kanya Pathshala has seen damage in two staff quarters, which have been demolished, and three classrooms.

To fund repairs effectively, the Sabha will allow these schools to utilize their Free Education Grant (FEG) allocations. However, should external assistance from the Ministry of Education not materialize, the Sabha is contemplating securing a bank loan for urgent maintenance needs. Plans are already underway to demolish the damaged classroom blocks at Pandit Vishnu Deo College as part of the rehabilitation measures.

Previous reports highlighted that termite infestations across Fiji have long posed challenges to educational infrastructure, notably in the Western Division. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister, Professor Biman Prasad, has assured that upcoming budgets will address this issue, part of a broader national initiative to combat termites and create safer learning environments.

The government’s involvement and commitment provide a hopeful outlook for the affected schools, suggesting that collaborative efforts might lead to substantial improvements in educational conditions across the affected regions. Collectively, these measures reflect a growing recognition of the need for sustainable solutions to the challenges posed by termite infestations in schools and other facilities across Fiji.