Schools in the Lau Group will resume operations after a prolonged closure caused by the impact of Tropical Cyclone Rae, which began on February 24. The decision to reopen comes following a thorough assessment carried out in collaboration with the National Disaster Management Office, focusing on infrastructure damage—particularly to roads, bridges, and crossings—that had hindered access to schools.
Education Minister Aseri Radrodro expressed his relief at the reopening, commending the patience and resilience demonstrated by families in the Lau Group during this difficult period. He highlighted the need for safety, advising parents to evaluate local conditions before sending their children back to school. The Ministry of Education has been closely monitoring the situation to ensure schools can operate safely.
In contrast to the Lau Group, schools in the Northern Division, Lomaiviti, Western, and Central Divisions, as well as those on Rotuma, continued functioning normally throughout the aftermath of the cyclone. The Ministry encourages school leaders to maintain open lines of communication with their Management Committees and local authorities to keep everyone updated as recovery efforts progress.
The reopening of schools marks a promising step towards recovery and stability for the affected communities. The resilience shown by these communities amid the challenges posed by the cyclone reflects their strength and determination. As families and educational institutions collaborate, there is optimism that a quick return to normalcy in the education sector is achievable, ultimately benefiting students and their families.
This situation underscores the vital importance of community cooperation and preparedness in effectively navigating natural disasters. With ongoing support and vigilance, there remains hope for a successful recovery in both the educational sector and the broader community.
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