In light of two recent fires at schools, the National Fire Authority (NFA) is ramping up inspections of educational institutions across the country to ensure adherence to fire safety standards.
NFA Chief Executive Puamau Sowane highlighted the critical need for immediate action following the fires at Desbhandhu Vitogo Primary School in Lautoka on October 12 and Lomaivuna High School on October 6.
The NFA is also encouraging government and school authorities to prioritize fire insurance investments for their properties.
In the case of Desbhandhu Vitogo Primary School, the fire resulted in the destruction of four classrooms, an office, a staff room, and a computer lab. The concrete building, topped with a corrugated iron roof, suffered 95 percent damage, with repairs estimated at $220,000. Consequently, students are currently squatting in tents. The total estimated damage, including destroyed items valued at $160,000, has reached $380,000. Damaged belongings included educational equipment and supplies, such as a photocopier, laptops, tablets, and furniture.
An investigation has been initiated to determine the fire’s cause.
Sowane stated, “To tackle the overarching issue, the NFA has begun discussions with the Permanent Secretary for Education and the Minister of Education about incorporating a Fire Safety Curriculum in early education. This aims to educate children on fire safety from a young age, enabling them to respond effectively in emergencies.”
The NFA is concentrating inspections on high-risk schools, especially those housing boarding facilities, operating commercial kitchens, featuring aging classroom blocks, or containing chemistry labs. They have already examined 25 schools, including 12 major boarding institutions in Viti Levu and Taveuni, all with student enrollments exceeding 500, based on either school requests or NFA scheduling.
“We are dedicated to inspecting all primary and secondary schools in Fiji across its three divisions, focusing on those most vulnerable to fire risks. Our objective is to reduce the occurrence of school fires by ensuring compliance with fire safety regulations,” he added.
Statistics from the NFA reveal that from January 2019 to October 15, 2024, 22 school buildings nationwide have experienced over 90 percent damage due to fires. This included 11 classrooms and offices, five dormitory buildings, six teacher quarters, and a tool shed, collectively causing damages exceeding $3.7 million.
Sowane emphasized that both school administrations and the central government must consider investing in insurance for school properties to safeguard against future disasters. “Significant investments in education have been lost in recent school fires,” he remarked.
He stressed the necessity of securing government investments in educational buildings, office supplies, equipment, and furnishings, especially during school hours when children are present. The NFA is collaborating closely with building and government architects to ensure that all government facilities, particularly schools, comply with the National Building Code of Fiji’s fire safety requirements.
Additionally, the NFA is collecting data from the Ministry of Education concerning the ages of various school buildings. This data will help provide tailored fire safety advice based on the specific risks associated with older structures.
“We are committed to making this initiative a priority and will keep the public updated as we progress with inspections and fire safety education in schools.”