The Justice Minister, Siromi Turaga, is urging parents on Koro Island to enroll their children in Koro High School rather than in urban schools due to rising social issues in Viti Levu.
During a talanoa session held at Nasau Village in Mudu, Mr. Turaga emphasized the importance of safeguarding children. “It is vital that we keep our children safe on our island. When we have Year 13 at Koro High School, I encourage you to send your children here,” he stated.
Mr. Turaga expressed concerns about the urban areas, highlighting the dangers present. He posed the question of whether parents want their children to face these risks or prefer to protect them by choosing Koro High School for their education before they move on to higher education.
He also announced that new programs will be rolled out at the school. “We will soon implement TVET programs at the school. Just last week, the Government decided to provide a salary for the school chaplain, which is essential,” he added.
Recalling the historical role of missionaries in introducing education to Fiji, Mr. Turaga noted, “When chaplains are absent from schools, we see the emergence of a different generation. There is much work to do, and today is significant as we gather to listen to one another.”
The Tui Nasau of Nasau Village, Vonevate Vetaukula, revealed that the village plans to purchase internet data from Starlink Services to enhance the educational support for its students.
Currently, Koro High School has approximately 300 students enrolled.