Japan’s Ambassador to Fiji, Michii Rokuichiro, encouraged students at Dreketi Central College (DCC) in Macuata to embrace their educational opportunities during a visit on Friday. He emphasized the importance of academic growth and taking advantage of the resources available to them.
The ambassador’s visit coincided with the handover ceremony for three newly constructed classrooms funded by the Japanese Government, along with Coalition Government assistant ministers including Minister for Finance, Biman Prasad. The initiative received funding of $333,784 through Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) program.
Mr. Rokuichiro noted that the new classrooms symbolize a pathway to knowledge and educational enhancement. In addition to the classroom construction, the college received three tables and chairs for teachers and 120 desks and chairs for students.
The ambassador urged students to fully utilize the resources provided to them. “We maintain a strong bilateral relationship with Fiji, focusing particularly on advancing education,” he remarked.
Minister Prasad expressed pride in witnessing the development of his former school, highlighting the significance of quality infrastructure for the students’ educational experience. He thanked the ambassador for the support.
School manager Savenaca Vakacego reflected on his long-standing commitment to ensuring the construction of cyclone-resistant classrooms and acknowledged the timely assistance from the Japanese government. “Your support will be remembered by our community, including students, teachers, and parents,” he stated.
Mr. Vakacego mentioned that patience was crucial throughout the project’s progress, and currently, the school serves 364 students across Years 9-13 while also accommodating a technical college.