The Minister for Education, Aseri Radrodro, has announced a new initiative to enhance accountability in the management of sponsorship funds for secondary school sporting competitions in Fiji. This move encompasses major events such as the Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby League (FSSRL), the Coca-Cola Games, and the Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby Union’s Deans Trophy.
During a recent discussion with SUNsports, Radrodro expressed concerns over the lack of transparency regarding how financial resources are utilized by these organizations. He noted that the dissatisfaction of major sponsors, who were contemplating withdrawing their support due to insufficient financial breakdowns, prompted this directive. The Minister has called for a thorough review and detailed reporting of last year’s financial operations.
In his statements, Radrodro emphasized that entities involved in these sporting events must be accountable for the funds generated, particularly from ticket sales, and explain how these contributions benefit students throughout the academic year. He has mandated that all sponsoring bodies conduct Annual General Meetings (AGMs) to present comprehensive accounts of fund usage, which will be monitored closely as the Fiji Finals approach.
Additionally, Radrodro highlighted the longstanding partnership between the Fiji Secondary Schools Athletics Association (FSSAA) and Coca-Cola, reiterating his commitment to ensuring that students involved in the competitions receive fair compensation. This follows a promise made in previous meetings that proposed financial rewards for student athletes.
As part of the Ministry’s comprehensive strategy, future meetings with relevant stakeholders aim to ensure that the execution of these sporting events is both effective and beneficial for students. This initiative signifies a positive step toward a more transparent and accountable sports administration framework, ultimately fostering a better environment for student athletes in Fiji.
Overall, this proactive approach not only aims to improve the management of funds but also underscores the Ministry’s dedication to prioritizing student welfare and participation in sports as an integral part of their educational experience. As Fiji continues to advance in educational sports programming, Radrodro’s initiatives reflect an optimistic outlook for the future of student athletics in the country.
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