Students at Namuka District School in Macuata are experiencing renewed optimism with the recent handover of three new classrooms funded by the Japanese government. This $292,808 project is designed to improve educational resources in Namuka by replacing old and deteriorating school facilities.
Japanese Ambassador to Fiji, Michii Rokuichiro, visited the school and the local community to officially hand over the classrooms, which are part of the Grants of Grassroots Programme (GGP). During the event, Ambassador Rokuichiro emphasized the importance of education as a vital tool for societal development and urged students to take responsibility for maintaining the new buildings. He expressed hope that the updated facilities would encourage students to fully engage in their academic pursuits.
Tevita Masiwini, the head of the school, echoed these sentiments, stating that the new classrooms will provide an improved learning environment for students. Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, the Minister for Health and Medical Services, expressed gratitude to the Japanese government for their support in enhancing education.
Masiwini noted that the new infrastructure would help bridge the gap between students in rural areas and their urban peers, contributing to a sense of equity in educational opportunities. He added that the provision of new chairs and tables would further motivate students to remain focused on their studies and potentially increase school enrollment, which has faced a decline in recent years.