A new $26,000 Kavanagasau Sanatan Dharm Kindergarten has been inaugurated, aimed at providing a center for early learning and play for children in Kavanagasau and its neighboring communities. The facility, supported by a generous donation from the Tappoo Group of Companies, officially opened earlier this month.
Situated approximately 18 kilometers from Sigatoka Town, the kindergarten strengthens the school’s enrollment, which also includes primary grades from Years One to Eight, as well as a college program for Years Nine to Thirteen. Jitendra Kumar, the head of the school, expressed his gratitude to the Tappoo Group during the opening event, highlighting the importance of the play center in developing the next generation. He emphasized that learning can occur beyond traditional classroom settings, in spaces designed to inspire creativity and curiosity.
“This Early Childhood Education (ECE) play center represents a significant advancement for promoting quality education in the Nadroga Navosa education district,” remarked Mr. Kumar.
The play center also honors the late Tappoo Kanji, a pioneering student of the school and a key figure for the Tappoo family. During the inauguration, Tappoo Group chairperson Kanti Tappoo shared heartfelt memories of his family’s longstanding connection to the institution, which began with his father’s enrollment in 1933. He stated that the play center symbolizes the family’s attachment to the community and underscores the value of early education.
The Tappoo Group’s involvement with the school has been extensive, having previously donated $12,500 in IT equipment for the school’s computer lab last year. This year’s initiative aims to enhance the educational environment for younger students, further solidifying their commitment to the rural school.
Janice Nath, the Education Officer for Nadroga Navosa, praised the Tappoo Group for their vision in fostering lifelong learners. She noted that the play center will not only benefit local children but also reflect the Ministry of Education’s dedication to promoting innovation and quality education. “Early childhood education lays the groundwork for future learning, and this facility will offer a supportive, student-friendly atmosphere,” she stated.
The Kavanagasau Kindergarten ECE play center is expected to significantly impact the lives of its young learners, facilitating their social, emotional, and physical growth within a nurturing environment. With support from the Tappoo Group, the school management committee, and the Ministry of Education, the play center is set to become a vital part of community education.
The opening ceremony concluded with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque, symbolizing the collaborative efforts that made this achievement possible and the community’s commitment to providing an excellent start for its children.
In a related achievement, the Kavanagasau Sanatan Dharam Primary School celebrated a 100 percent pass rate in the previous year’s Fiji Eighth Year Examination, marking two consecutive years of this accomplishment. Mr. Kumar acknowledged the tireless efforts of teachers and parents in achieving this success. Lice Vuliasi, a diligent student from Kavanagasau settlement, attained the highest score. Mr. Kumar emphasized the importance of parental support and noted that they have addressed weaknesses identified in 2023 in preparation for another year of strong academic performance.
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