Christmas came early for students at Sigatoka Methodist School, thanks to the generous support of the Tappoo family, one of Fiji’s leading corporate families. Their long-standing connection to Sigatoka and the school strengthens each year, exemplifying their commitment to community welfare.
Recently, the Tappoo Group, through its Tappoo Foundation, addressed the school’s critical water supply issues by installing two 10,000-litre water tanks at the newly relocated Sigatoka Methodist College in Kulukulu. This initiative was celebrated during an inauguration ceremony where Kanti Tappoo, chairperson of the Tappoo Group and a former student of the school, shared touching memories of his early life in Sigatoka along with his siblings, highlighting the family’s deep ties to the institution.
During his address, Tappoo reflected on his formative years and the important lessons instilled in him by figures such as the late Reverend Edward Caleb, who emphasized the significance of values education. He proudly noted that not only did his family have a longstanding association with the school, but that his grandchildren also attended.
The recent move of Sigatoka Methodist School from Laselase to Kulukulu, facilitated by the Methodist Church’s purchase of a 10-acre property, has faced challenges, especially regarding consistent water supply. School manager Jacob Pau’u indicated that the new location currently accommodates two Year 12 and two Year 13 classes, while future expansions depend on available funding.
Mr. Pau’u expressed gratitude for the Tappoo family’s support, stating, “We had a lot of water problems, but that has been solved by the kind gesture of the Tappoo family.” Kanti Tappoo echoed this sentiment, affirming the importance of the school in their family’s legacy and the benefits that the new water infrastructure will provide.
The Tappoo Group, established by the late Tappoo Kanji in 1941, continues to honor its founder’s legacy through philanthropic efforts. Each year, the family marks the company’s anniversary by providing assistance to various local beneficiaries, including the Sigatoka Methodist School and neighboring villages.
This act of generosity not only helps address immediate logistical challenges faced by the school but also serves as a beacon of hope and encouragement within the community, showcasing the potential for impactful partnerships between local businesses and educational institutions. This spirit of giving can inspire other corporate entities to engage in similar initiatives, fostering a stronger and more resilient community.
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