Two maritime schools in Fiji’s Northern Division are still functioning without proper classrooms, years after suffering damage from natural disasters. Laucala District School in Dreketi Village on Qamea Island was heavily impacted by a landslide in December 2016, while Yadua Village School on Yadua Island experienced destruction due to Tropical Cyclone Yasa in 2020.
Since these events, students have been learning in temporary shelters such as village halls and community centers as they wait for new classrooms to be constructed. School management has arranged temporary measures for the students while expecting help from the Ministry of Education.
Permanent Secretary for Education, Selina Kuruleca, has indicated that the upcoming 2024-2025 financial year budget includes funds to rebuild the classrooms. However, she pointed out that logistical issues remain a challenge.
“We are working with other government ministries to ensure timely delivery of building materials to these schools on the islands,” Ms. Kuruleca stated. She emphasized the ministry’s desire, like that of the affected communities, to avoid having children study in tents.
Collaboration is underway with communities and corporate organizations that are stepping in to assist with the rehabilitation efforts. Fiji Teachers Union Secretary Muniappa Goundar criticized the delays, arguing that the ministry should have made arrangements sooner.
“It shouldn’t take four years to organize a barge. We’re already in the third term, and students and teachers need to prepare for exams,” Mr. Goundar remarked. Despite the setbacks, he expressed gratitude towards school management and villagers for their efforts in establishing temporary learning environments.
Ms. Kuruleca also confirmed that there are no other schools in the North facing unresolved damage from natural disasters.