More than 80 schools in the Suva-Nausori area are set to undergo upgrades, which include the construction of a new secondary school. This announcement follows the release of the Infrastructure Assessment Report, which was unveiled during an event at Suva Primary School. Australian High Commissioner to Fiji, Ewen McDonald, emphasized that the report provides a thorough engineering evaluation of the 86 schools in the region, serving as a crucial foundation for determining future support priorities.
The report highlights key issues such as overcrowded classrooms, inadequate sanitation and hygiene facilities, and the need for buildings to be cyclone-resistant. Over half of the inspected schools were found to exceed optimal capacity, with concerns particularly focused on improving conditions for students. McDonald pointed out that some students have been accommodated in tents at the Davuilevu Secondary School since its establishment in 2016, highlighting the urgent need for new facilities.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka expressed appreciation for the Australian Government’s partnership, stating that this initiative aligns with the government’s education infrastructure master plan. He reaffirmed the commitment to provide every child in Fiji with access to a safe, resilient, and inclusive learning environment, which is a critical aspect of the National Development Plan.
An earlier report had also underscored similar deficiencies in the educational infrastructure, revealing that a substantial number of schools suffer from poor sanitation and structural problems. The recognition of these challenges has paved the way for discussions about funding and strategic planning aimed at improving the educational landscape in Fiji.
With these joint efforts, there is growing optimism for the enhancement of the educational sector, ensuring that every child in the Suva-Nausori region has the opportunity to learn in safe and supportive facilities. The steps being taken today are laying the groundwork for a brighter educational future for all Fijian students.
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