Japan’s Ambassador to Fiji, Michii Rokuichiro, encouraged students at Dreketi Central College (DCC) in Macuata on Friday to embrace the opportunity for academic growth and seize the advantages of knowledge. The ambassador was present alongside assistant ministers from the Coalition Government and Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad, during a ceremony for the handover of three new classrooms funded by the Japanese Government.
The funding, totaling $333,784, was sourced through the Japanese Government Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) program. Mr. Rokuichiro described the new classrooms as a significant step towards educational advancement. Additionally, the college received three tables and chairs for teachers, along with 120 desks and chairs for students.
He urged students to take responsibility for the resources provided and make wise use of them. “We have a strong bilateral relationship with Fiji, and we consistently seek to enhance the education sector,” he stated.
Minister Prasad expressed pride in witnessing the development of his former school with improved infrastructure, acknowledging the ambassador for the support. He noted that the new classrooms would positively impact all students attending the college.
School manager Savenaca Vakacego reflected on his commitment to ensuring the construction of resilient classrooms, noting that the funding from the Japanese government was timely. “Your assistance will be remembered by our community, students, teachers, and parents,” Mr. Vakacego said.
He added that the journey of bringing the project to fruition required patience. Currently, the school accommodates 364 students in Years 9-13, and the technical college is also operational.