More than 2,000 primary school classrooms in Fiji currently have over 30 students each, revealing a significant strain on the country’s educational infrastructure. Education Minister Aseri Radrodro announced that 237 primary schools have been identified with such overcrowded classrooms, totaling 2,143 classes that exceed the recommended guidelines of 25 to 30 students per teacher.
The Minister emphasized the urgent need for further investments in school infrastructure and targeted recruitment of teachers to address this ongoing issue. Radrodro reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to ensuring a conducive learning environment for all students, acknowledging the challenges posed by these overcrowded classrooms.
This situation follows findings from a recent Infrastructure Assessment Report, which indicated that around 70% of schools surveyed within the Suva-Nausori corridor face similar overcrowding challenges. The report highlights inconsistencies between the Fiji National Building Code (FNBC) and the standards set by the Ministry of Education regarding classroom capacity, revealing that vast improvements are necessary to meet both educational and structural needs.
In addition to overcrowding, the assessment underscored significant infrastructural deficiencies, including inadequate water and sanitation facilities, which further hinder the educational experience. The need for rapid action is clear, as without improvements, the overall quality of education risks deteriorating further.
The recognition of these pressing issues marks a hopeful turning point, as it opens the door for discussions on strategic investments by the government and potential partnerships with communities and international organizations. With a focused effort on improving classroom conditions and educational resources, there is optimism that Fiji can advance its educational landscape, ensuring that each child has the opportunity to thrive in a safe and supportive environment.
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