Opposition MP Ketan Lal has declared that the alarming rise in fires at schools constitutes a nationwide crisis that requires immediate and effective intervention. He emphasized that ensuring student safety and their right to a continuous education must be prioritized and cannot be compromised.
Lal criticized the government for its focus on offering excuses rather than finding solutions to this pressing issue. He urged both the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Infrastructure to deploy expert teams and auditors to conduct assessments in every school across the nation. This comprehensive safety audit, which should involve collaboration with fire authorities, aims to pinpoint schools and classrooms that are particularly vulnerable and in need of urgent care.
He stressed the necessity of establishing a definitive plan to mitigate fire hazards and to guarantee that schools adhere to fundamental safety standards. Lal has firmly stated that the time for ineffective responses and for the Coalition Government to play the blame game has passed; immediate action is required to address these serious threats to safety.
Highlighting the consequences already faced—damage to school property, interruptions to student education, and potential risks to life—Lal questioned how long such negligence could persist. He made it clear that this is not just a political matter, but a critical issue impacting the safety of children and educators alike. He articulated the dangers of continued governmental inaction, noting the potential for further tragedies.
Lal called upon the Coalition Government to recognize the urgent nature of this dilemma. He reassured the people of Fiji that the safety of their children is a key priority for the Opposition. Asserting that the time for excuses has ended, he demanded robust leadership and decisive measures to ensure the safety of future generations.
This situation underscores the importance of proactive measures in safeguarding educational environments and ensuring the well-being of students and staff. By prioritizing safety audits and addressing fire hazards, the government can work toward preventing future incidents and fostering a secure atmosphere for learning.
In summary, Lal’s call to action highlights a critical opportunity for collaboration between government pillars, aimed at safeguarding the educational infrastructure and the welfare of children in Fiji. With concerted efforts, it is hoped that a safer school environment can be established swiftly.
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