Japan’s Ambassador to Fiji, Michii Rokuichiro, encouraged students at Dreketi Central College (DCC) in Macuata on Friday to embrace education and strive for academic excellence. The ambassador attended a ceremony marking the handover of three newly built classrooms, financed by the Japanese Government.
The initiative, costing $333,784, was made possible through Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) program. Mr. Rokuichiro emphasized that the new classrooms symbolize a pathway to knowledge and learning opportunities. In addition to the funding, the school received three teachers’ desks and chairs, along with 120 desks and chairs for students.
He urged the students to take responsibility for the resources given to them and to use them effectively. “We have a strong bilateral relationship with Fiji, particularly in the educational sector, which we strive to enhance,” he stated.
Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, expressed pride in the development of his former school and appreciated the ambassador’s support. He noted that the new classrooms would significantly benefit all students at the college.
School manager, Savenaca Vakacego, shared his determination to ensure the construction of cyclone-resistant classrooms. Serving as the school’s manager for seven years, he remarked that the Japanese Government’s assistance came at an essential time.
“Your support will always be remembered by our community, including students, teachers, and parents,” Mr. Vakacego stated. He acknowledged that patience was necessary from the project’s inception to when it gained the attention of the Japanese Government. Currently, the school enrolls 364 students from Years 9 to 13, with a technical college also in operation.