Fiji’s Schools Under Siege: Termites Disrupt Learning Amid Infrastructure Crisis

Forty-four schools located in the Western Division of Fiji are grappling with termite infestations, which have severely interrupted the educational experience of students. Education Minister Aseri Radrodro informed Parliament that 11 of these schools are facing considerable challenges due to the damage caused by termites, with students currently forced to hold classes in temporary tents provided by UNICEF.

Radrodro expressed gratitude to UNICEF for their swift support during this crisis. “We are currently being confronted with termite infestation in Western schools, and we are thankful to UNICEF for providing temporary tents for classroom use,” he stated. Specifically, St Thomas Primary and Lovu Sangam Primary are among the schools significantly impacted.

The broader issue of school infrastructure was underscored in a recent audit conducted by the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT), which highlighted concerns over classroom overcrowding and a critical need for better water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) facilities. The audit indicated that many school buildings are aging and have not kept pace with the demands placed on them, having endured extreme weather conditions.

In response to these challenges, the government has initiated preliminary work for the construction of three new schools – Vatuwaqa Primary School, Suva Primary School, and Davuilevu Secondary School – with funding support from DFAT. This development reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing educational facilities amidst the ongoing infrastructure crisis.

There is an evident need for significant reforms to ensure that all students benefit from safe and suitable learning environments. As the government collaborates with international partners and local communities, there is growing optimism that the combination of infrastructure improvements and proactive measures will lead to a more stable educational framework in Fiji, ultimately benefiting the students of the Western Division and beyond.

The situation, while currently challenging, represents a pivotal opportunity for collective action to enhance educational infrastructure across the nation, fostering better learning conditions for all students.