Motukana Primary School, located in the highlands of Navosa/Nadroga, roughly 120 kilometers from Sigatoka town, will soon have solar lights and electricity supply. This school, which has 85 students, is part of the Solar Rooftop project.
Head of School, Isimeli Druavesi, expressed gratitude to the International Solar Alliance (ISA) for their support. He mentioned that the assistance from ISA will enable the school to introduce e-learning technologies for its students.
“With ISA’s help, we plan to establish a mini computer lab to connect our students and teachers with the world and adopt modern teaching methods,” said Mr. Druavesi.
Currently, the absence of light prevents them from holding evening or extra classes after dark. He noted that students in remote areas often miss out on opportunities to enhance their literacy skills through evening classes due to the lack of proper lighting.
“Proper lighting creates a comfortable and safe learning environment, contributing to a more engaging and productive educational experience,” Mr. Druavesi said. “It allows students to focus on their studies without distractions.”
Access to electricity will enable the school to offer a broader range of online courses, virtual field trips, and collaborative projects, enriching students’ educational experiences in an increasingly digital age.
Sandeep Kaur Singh, ISA’s programme head for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs), emphasized that the lack of electricity in remote schools leads to educational inequality. She highlighted that providing sustainable and reliable electricity, such as through solar power systems, is essential to bridging this gap.
Through the ISA’s Solar Rooftop Project, solar panels will be installed on school buildings to generate electricity, ensuring students have access to technology and a modern, well-rounded education. Singh stressed the importance of advocating for improved infrastructure and resources to ensure all students have equal learning opportunities.
Recently, consultants contracted by ISA visited the school to assess and identify its solar energy requirements. They collected relevant data, including daily average sunlight hours, the number of classrooms needing electricity, the electrical equipment to be used, and provisions for e-learning opportunities.