The Ministry of Education in Fiji, led by Education Minister Aseri Radrodro, recently emphasized that while the government provides a free education grant, it does not include direct coverage for insurance. This announcement comes as schools face increasing vulnerabilities from disasters such as fires and climate change effects.
In a parliamentary session, Radrodro explained that school management bodies, including various faith-based organizations, hold the authority to decide upon insurance options. He encouraged schools to actively explore these avenues for safeguarding their infrastructure. “We provide the free education grant based on six allocations. They can discuss with us if they wish to broaden their protective measures,” he remarked.
Moreover, the Ministry has proactively set up a disaster risk resilience department to address potential disasters schools may face. This initiative underscores the Ministry’s commitment to creating robust disaster management policies to ensure the safety of the educational environment across the country. Previously, similar efforts were launched following disaster events, including Tropical Cyclone Yasa, to better equip schools for unexpected challenges.
Radrodro’s approach reflects a comprehensive strategy to bolster disaster preparedness and promote collaboration between the Ministry and schools. This indicates a hopeful future for educational safety initiatives, fostering a commitment to proactive measures over reactive solutions. By building disaster resilience within educational institutions, the Ministry is demonstrating its commitment to safeguarding the future of students and the educational landscape in Fiji.
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