Motukana Primary School, located in the highlands of Navosa/Nadroga, approximately 120 kilometers from Sigatoka town, is set to receive solar lights and electricity supply soon.
With an enrollment of 85 students, Motukana Primary is one of the schools selected for assistance under the Solar Rooftop Project.
The school’s Head, Isimeli Druavesi, expressed gratitude to the International Solar Alliance (ISA) for making this possible. Mr. Druavesi highlighted plans to introduce e-learning technologies for the students with the help of ISA. “We will establish a mini computer lab to help students and teachers connect with the rest of the world and embrace modern teaching methods,” he said.
Currently, the lack of lighting means evening classes or extra classes cannot be held once darkness falls. Mr. Druavesi pointed out that students in remote areas miss out on the opportunity to improve their literacy skills through evening classes. He emphasized that proper lighting systems, made possible by electricity, create a comfortable and safe learning environment. This leads to a more engaging and productive learning atmosphere, allowing students to focus on their studies without distractions.
He also noted that access to electricity enables schools to offer a wider range of online courses, virtual field trips, and collaborative projects, enriching students’ educational experiences and preparing them for success in an increasingly digital world.
Sandeep Kaur Singh, ISA’s programme head for Small Island Developing States (SIDS) and Least Developed Countries (LDCs), commented on the issue of education inequality due to the lack of electricity in remote schools. She mentioned that implementing solutions such as solar power systems can provide a sustainable and reliable electricity supply, bridging the education gap in remote areas.
The ISA’s Solar Rooftop Project will install solar panels on school buildings to generate electricity, ensuring that students have access to technology and benefit from a modernized education. Singh stressed the importance of advocating for improved infrastructure and resources for remote schools to ensure all students have equal learning opportunities. She emphasized that collaborative efforts from the community, government, and stakeholders are vital in addressing education inequalities caused by the lack of electricity in remote schools.
Recently, ISA-contracted consultants visited Motukana Primary School to conduct assessments and identify its solar energy requirements. They also scouted the area, gathering data such as daily average hours of sunlight, the number of classrooms needing electricity, the electrical equipment to be used, and provisions for e-learning opportunities.