A fire broke out at John Wesley College in Suva on Friday morning, causing significant damage to several vocational classrooms, including the technical drawing room, science lab, and home economics room. The incident began around 10 am, but fortunately, no students were present as classes were not in session due to the ongoing examination period.
Firefighters from the National Fire Authority (NFA) responded to the blaze, but their chief executive, Sowane Puamau, indicated that the late arrival of some tanker units hindered their ability to save more of the affected building. However, the computer lab was successfully preserved. Puamau emphasized the importance of fire safety and the need for timely response in such emergencies.
While assessing the scene, Mr. Nazid noted that a majority of the equipment in the destroyed classrooms had been lost. Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro visited the college shortly after the incident and spoke with the principal. He acknowledged that incidents like these serve as learning experiences, highlighting the importance of incorporating fire safety education into the school curriculum.
Radrodro assured that despite the fire damage, regular classes would continue as planned in the coming week, noting that any necessary adjustments to internal examinations would be managed by the school’s leadership.
This unfortunate event has opened a door for improvement in safety protocols and educational practices that could ultimately enhance student safety and awareness in the future. With proactive measures and education on fire mitigation being discussed, the college community can move forward in a positive direction, emerging stronger and more prepared for any future contingencies.
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