Four schools in Fiji’s Western Division are facing serious challenges due to termite infestations, as highlighted during the annual convention of the Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji held in Suva. The national president, Arun Deo Padarath, reported that Gurukul Primary School, Pt Vishnu Deo Memorial College, Arya Samaj Primary School in Lautoka, and Arya Kanya Pathshala in Ba are particularly affected by this escalating problem.
Despite requests for assistance from the Ministry of Education, these schools have yet to receive support to address the issue. However, in a related effort, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, Professor Biman Prasad, has assured that government funding is being allocated in the upcoming 2025-2026 National Budget to combat termite infestations nationwide. This funding comes as part of a broader initiative addressing ongoing issues posed by termites, particularly the Asian Subterranean Termite, which has been a significant threat in regions such as Lautoka and Ba for over a decade.
In recent years, the government has introduced various measures, including a termite baiting program targeted primarily at households earning less than $30,000, especially in high-risk areas. This proactive approach aims to mitigate the spread of termites and improve living conditions for affected communities. As these initiatives continue, there is a sense of hope that collective efforts between government agencies and community involvement will lead to effective solutions, ultimately restoring safe learning environments in the impacted schools and homes.
Effective collaboration and commitment from all parties involved may pave the way for communities to reclaim their safe living and educational spaces from the impacts of termite infestations.
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