Maciu Nalumisa, the Minister for Housing and Local Government, along with Iliesa Vanawalu, the Assistant Minister for Education, and Ms. Selina Kuruleca, the Permanent Secretary, conducted inspections at Deshbandhu Vitogo Primary School in Lautoka. The visit took place following a devastating fire that occurred on October 12, 2024, resulting in the destruction of the school office, four classrooms, and the Computer Lab. Fortunately, the National Fire Authority was able to contain the blaze, which saved the Library, Early Childhood Education classroom, and school toilets.
Minister Nalumisa reassured the school community that temporary solutions would be implemented to ensure students can continue their education.
Early Childhood Education students will remain in their classroom, while Years 1 and 2 will move to the Library. Years 5 and 6 will occupy a vacant teacher’s quarters, and students in Years 3, 4, 7, and 8 will utilize a tent provided by UNICEF as a temporary classroom.
Additionally, both teachers and students will receive counseling and psychosocial support this week.
Deshbandhu Vitogo Primary School currently has a total enrollment of 49 students, with 38 in Years 1 to 8 and 11 in Early Childhood Education.
The Fiji Police Force and National Fire Authority are investigating to determine the cause of the fire.