Twelve districts in Macuata have committed to raising $30,000 each in an effort to enhance education for local children. During a meeting of the Macuata Provincial Council held in Sasa Village, Tui Labasa Ratu Jone Qomate expressed his appreciation for the traditional leaders’ initiative. If all districts fulfill this pledge, it could result in a total of approximately $360,000 being raised by the end of the 2025 financial year.
Ratu Jone noted that the initiative was sparked by concerns regarding the recent outcomes of the Fiji Eighth Year Examination (FEYE), which saw around 6,000 students failing. To address this issue, an education committee, consisting of retired teachers, has been formed to investigate how many of these failing students come from Macuata. Currently, there is no specific data on how many of the failed students are iTaukei.
The funds raised will be dedicated to various educational programs, including a potential scholarship scheme for students in need and extra educational support for those who require it. Ratu Jone also pointed out alarming findings from a wellbeing survey conducted last year by the iTaukei Affairs Board, which indicated a significant number of school dropouts, many of whom could not provide valid reasons to their parents for leaving school.
He stressed the necessity of parental involvement in education and urged traditional leaders to engage more actively with children about the importance of their schooling.
This proactive approach to education funding and support within the Macuata region demonstrates a strong commitment to improving academic outcomes for local students. By investing in education, these leaders are fostering a brighter future for their children and building a foundation for the community’s development.
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