A significant contribution from the Government of Japan amounting to $913,000 will support the construction of cyclone-resilient classrooms for Lomaivuna High School and Ratu Sauvoli Memorial School, following the recent signing of grant contracts in Suva. The event was a focal point for collaboration between the two nations, underscoring their friendship and commitment to education.
During the ceremony held at his residence in Tamavua, Hiroshi Tajima, the Ambassador of Japan, expressed his honor in formalizing the agreements. He highlighted that these initiatives are part of Japan’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP), aimed at enhancing the safety and quality of educational facilities in Fiji. With this funding, approximately FJ$403,000 will be directed to Lomaivuna High School while Ratu Sauvoli Memorial School will receive around FJ$510,000.
Each school will benefit from the development of a new fully furnished, three-classroom building made from reinforced concrete, specifically designed to withstand Category 5 cyclones. This project is crucial for providing a safe and conducive learning environment, particularly after Lomaivuna High School experienced significant challenges when a fire in October 2024 destroyed one of its buildings and essential facilities, forcing students into temporary learning arrangements.
Furthermore, Ratu Sauvoli Memorial School has been facing issues with an aging two-storey wooden structure, which built in 1970, has shown significant wear with decaying floors and walls that pose risks to students’ safety. Ambassador Tajima emphasized that these projects are responses to the challenges faced by the schools and reaffirmed that education is vital for every child’s potential.
“From classrooms to communities, we are building resilience together,” he concluded, highlighting the collaborative effort to enhance educational infrastructure in the region and strengthen the ties between Japan and Fiji. This investment in education not only aims to enhance resilience against natural disasters but also aspires to create better opportunities for students in the future.
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