Ketan Lal, an Opposition Member of Parliament, has expressed deep concern regarding the alarming recent surge in fires at schools, labeling it a national crisis that requires prompt and decisive intervention. He emphasized that ensuring the safety of students and their right to a consistent educational experience must be treated as fundamental priorities.
Lal criticized the government’s response, suggesting it is more focused on providing excuses rather than implementing tangible solutions. He urged the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Infrastructure to immediately deploy expert teams and auditors to conduct thorough inspections across all schools in the nation.
The proposed nationwide safety audit, in partnership with fire authorities, aims to pinpoint schools and classrooms that are particularly vulnerable and in urgent need of remediation. Lal insisted on the necessity of establishing a clear plan to alleviate fire hazards and ensure that educational institutions adhere to basic safety regulations.
“This is not the moment for superficial responses or for the Coalition Government to continue passing the blame. It’s time for concrete action—actions that can be measured and evaluated,” Lal stated. He noted that previous fires have inflicted substantial damage on educational establishments, disrupted the learning process for countless students, and posed severe risks to their safety and that of their educators.
Lal questioned how long the negligence could persist, stressing that this issue transcends political interests and underscores the lives of children and teachers at stake. He conveyed a sense of urgency, warning that every day of delayed action increases the risk of another potential tragedy.
The Opposition leader called on the Coalition Government to recognize the critical nature of the situation, assuring the people of Fiji that the safety of their children remains the top priority for the Opposition. He concluded by asserting that it is no longer acceptable to make excuses; effective leadership is urgently needed.
In summary, the cries for action amidst a series of dangerous incidents in schools reflect a broader concern for student safety and educational integrity. The call for a collaborative intervention could pave the way for enhanced safety protocols and a more secure learning environment, ultimately fostering trust between the government and its citizens. It’s a moment that could lead to significant improvements in school safety across the country if effectively addressed.
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