Two maritime schools in Fiji’s Northern Division are still functioning without proper classrooms, several 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 the incidents, students have been attending classes in temporary accommodations such as village halls and community centers while waiting for new classrooms to be built. School management teams have made interim arrangements for the students as they seek action from the Ministry of Education.
Selina Kuruleca, the Permanent Secretary for Education, has confirmed that the budget for the 2024-2025 financial year includes funds for the reconstruction of classrooms at both institutions. However, she noted that logistical challenges persist.
“There are difficulties in transporting building materials to these schools on the islands,” Kuruleca stated. “We are coordinating with other government ministries to ensure this is completed on time, as the barge must be able to access these schools.”
Kuruleca emphasized that both the ministry and the affected communities are eager to prevent children from having to study in tents. “We are partnering with communities and corporate entities that have stepped up to assist with this rehabilitation effort.”
Muniappa Goundar, the general secretary of the Fiji Teachers Union, criticized the lengthy delay, arguing that the ministry should have acted sooner. “It shouldn’t take four years to arrange for a barge. We are already in the third term, and students and teachers are preparing for exams,” he said.
Despite the ongoing issues, Goundar expressed gratitude to the school management and local villagers for their efforts in creating temporary learning environments. “Their dedication has made it possible for children to continue their education.”
Kuruleca also confirmed that no other schools in the Northern Division are facing unresolved damage from natural disasters.