Japan’s Ambassador to Fiji, Michii Rokuichiro, encouraged students at Dreketi Central College (DCC) in Macuata to embrace knowledge and strive for academic success during a recent visit. The ambassador was joined by the Coalition Government’s assistant ministers, including Minister for Finance Biman Prasad, for the handover ceremony of three newly constructed classrooms funded by the Japanese Government.
The funding of $333,784.00 was provided through the Japanese Government’s Grant Assistance for Grassroots Human Security Projects (GGP) program. Ambassador Rokuichiro noted that the new classrooms symbolize a gateway to knowledge and educational growth, stating that in addition to the funding, three tables and chairs for teachers, as well as 120 new desks and chairs for students, were also supplied to the college.
He urged students to take responsibility for the resources provided and to utilize them wisely. “We have a strong bilateral relationship with Fiji, and we always assist in enhancing education,” he remarked.
Minister Prasad expressed pride in seeing quality infrastructure developed at his former school, acknowledging the ambassador’s support. He asserted that the new classrooms would significantly benefit all students attending DCC.
School manager Savenaca Vakacego highlighted his commitment to constructing new cyclone-resistant classrooms. He expressed gratitude for the timely funding from the Japanese government, stating, “Your assistance will never be forgotten by our vanua, students, teachers, and parents.”
Mr. Vakacego also mentioned the patience required from the initial scope of the project until it was presented to the Japanese Government. Currently, the school serves 364 students in Years 9-13, and a technical college operates alongside it.