The Minister for Housing and Local Government, Maciu Nalumisa, has promised teachers and students at Deshbandhu Vitogo Primary School in Lautoka, which was affected by a fire on Saturday, that temporary measures will be implemented. Accompanied by Assistant Minister of Education, Iliesa Vanawalu, and Permanent Secretary, Selina Kuruleca, Nalumisa visited the school alongside other officials to assess the situation.
The fire resulted in the destruction of the school office, four classrooms, and a computer lab. Fortunately, the National Fire Authority was able to safeguard the library, Early Childhood Education (ECE) classrooms, and the toilets.
As part of the temporary arrangements, ECE students will continue in their classrooms, while students in years 3, 4, 7, and 8 will use a tent provided by UNICEF. Nalumisa added that teachers and students would receive counseling and psychosocial support during the week.
In the meantime, the Police and the National Fire Authority are conducting a joint investigation to determine the cause of the fire.