Two maritime schools in the Northern Division are still functioning without proper classroom facilities, several years after being impacted by natural disasters. Laucala District School in Dreketi Village on Qamea Island was significantly affected by a landslide in December 2016, while Yadua Village School on Yadua Island in Bua suffered damage from Tropical Cyclone Yasa in 2020.
Since these events, students have been attending classes in makeshift shelters, village halls, and community centers, awaiting the construction of suitable classrooms. School management has made temporary arrangements while waiting for action from the Ministry of Education.
Permanent Secretary for Education, Selina Kuruleca, stated that the budget for the financial year 2024-2025 includes funds to rebuild classrooms at both schools. However, she acknowledged the logistical challenges of transporting building materials to these island locations.
“We are collaborating with other government ministries to ensure this is done promptly, as the barge needs to reach these schools,” Ms. Kuruleca explained. She emphasized that neither the ministry nor the affected communities want children to continue their studies in tents.
Additionally, she mentioned ongoing cooperation with communities and corporate partners who are assisting in the rehabilitation efforts.
Muniappa Goundar, the general secretary of the Fiji Teachers Union, criticized the prolonged delay, suggesting that the ministry should have taken quicker action. “It shouldn’t take four years to arrange a barge. We’re already in the third term, and students and teachers are preparing for exams,” he remarked.
Despite the setbacks, Mr. Goundar expressed gratitude to the school management and local villagers for establishing temporary learning spaces, highlighting their dedication to ensuring educational progress for the children. Ms. Kuruleca also confirmed that no other schools in the North are facing unresolved damage from natural disasters.