Two maritime schools in Fiji’s Northern Division are continuing to operate without proper classroom facilities years after they were damaged by natural disasters. The Laucala District School in Dreketi Village, Qamea Island, suffered severe damage from a landslide in December 2016, while Yadua Village School on Yadua Island in Bua was affected by Tropical Cyclone Yasa in 2020.
Since these events, students have been learning in temporary shelters, village halls, and community centers as they await the construction of permanent classrooms. School management teams have been making temporary arrangements for students while they seek intervention from the Ministry of Education.
Selina Kuruleca, the Permanent Secretary for Education, stated that the budget for the 2024-2025 financial year includes funds to rebuild classrooms at both schools. However, she noted logistical challenges in transporting building materials to the islands. “We are working with other government ministries to complete this in a timely manner because the barge must be able to reach these schools,” Ms. Kuruleca said. She emphasized that both the ministry and the affected communities are eager for children to stop studying in tents and have initiated collaborations with communities and corporate entities for assistance in the rehabilitation process.
Muniappa Goundar, the general secretary of the Fiji Teachers Union, criticized the delays and underscored that arrangements should have been made earlier. “It shouldn’t take four years to organize a barge. We’re already in the third term, and students and teachers are preparing for exams,” Mr. Goundar remarked. Despite the setbacks, he expressed gratitude towards the school management and villagers for their efforts in providing temporary learning spaces, ensuring that learning continues for the children.
Ms. Kuruleca also confirmed that there are no other schools in the Northern Division with unresolved damage from natural disasters.