In light of two recent school fires, the National Fire Authority (NFA) is increasing its inspection efforts at schools across the nation to ensure adherence to fire safety standards. NFA executive officer Puamau Sowane highlighted the urgent need for these measures following incidents at Desbhandhu Vitogo Primary School in Lautoka on October 12 and Lomaivuna High School on October 6.
The NFA is also encouraging both government and educational authorities to make fire insurance a priority for their facilities.
The fire at Desbhandhu Vitogo Primary School resulted in the destruction of four classrooms, an office, a staff room, and a computer room. This concrete building, featuring a corrugated iron roof and aluminum doors, sustained significant damage, estimated at 95 percent, with costs reaching approximately $220,000. Currently, students are utilizing tents for their classes. The total cost of the damage, including destroyed equipment valued at $160,000, amounts to $380,000. Damaged items from the school included technology such as laptops and projectors, along with essential supplies like stationery and kitchen equipment.
An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway.
To address fire safety education, the NFA is in talks with the Permanent Secretary for Education and the Minister of Education about integrating a Fire Safety Curriculum for younger students. This initiative aims to teach children about fire safety from an early age, enabling them to respond effectively in emergencies.
NFA is focusing its inspections on higher-risk schools, particularly those with boarding facilities, commercial kitchens, historical classroom buildings, and chemistry labs. So far, 25 schools have been inspected, including 12 major boarding schools on Viti Levu and Taveuni, each with a student population exceeding 500.
Sowane noted that between January 2019 and October 15, 2024, 22 school buildings nationwide experienced over 90 percent damage from fires, comprising 11 classrooms, five dormitory buildings, and more, totaling damages over $3.7 million. He urged school managements and the central government to consider investing in fire insurance for school properties.
With significant government investments in education and ongoing fire safety concerns, ensuring that schools are sufficiently insured is crucial. NFA is also working closely with architects to ensure compliance with the National Building Code of Fiji regarding fire safety standards. In addition, data on the age of school buildings is being collected to provide tailored fire safety advice for older structures.
This initiative remains a priority, and further updates will be provided as inspections and fire safety education efforts progress.