Students at Namuka District School in Macuata are optimistic about their future following the opening of three new classrooms funded by the Japanese government. This project, which cost $292,808, aims to improve educational facilities in Namuka by replacing outdated school buildings.
Japanese Ambassador to Fiji, Michii Rokuichiro, visited the school and the community to formally hand over the Grants of Grassroots Programme (GGP), which includes three 1-classroom blocks. During his visit, Mr. Rokuichiro emphasized the importance of education as a necessary tool for societal development, encouraging students to take pride in and care for their new classrooms.
He stated, “This classroom can be used to motivate you (students) to make the most of your academic journey.” Tevita Masiwini, the head of the school, expressed that the new facilities would foster a more conducive learning environment for the students.
Dr. Atonio Lalabalavu, the Minister for Health and Medical Services, expressed gratitude to the Japanese government for its support in education. Mr. Masiwini also noted that the new infrastructure would help alleviate students’ feelings of falling behind in comparison to urban schools, as they would now have new furniture and resources to enhance their learning experience.
He is hopeful that the establishment of the new classroom blocks will contribute to a reversal in the decline of student enrollment seen in recent years.