A delegation from Ratu Kadavulevu School presented a traditional apology to the teachers and students of Lelean Memorial School following an incident that occurred last Friday after the semi-finals of the Eastern Zone Secondary School Vodafone Deans at Dawasamu in Tailevu.
The event was attended by the principals of both schools, students, teachers, Ministry of Education officials, Eastern and Southern Zone administrators, and a representative from the Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby Union.
While presenting the matanigasau on behalf of RKS, Alivereti Korovulavula expressed hope that the apology would help heal the hurt suffered by those injured during the stoning incident.
Students from both schools were encouraged to leave the incident and any ill feelings behind as they begin their relationship anew.
Ministry of Education representative Josefa Gavidi reiterated the advice of Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro during a meeting with the school principals and zone delegates on Monday.
“We acknowledge the two schools for taking this essential step and want to reiterate that the safety and welfare of our students are paramount,” Gavidi said. “In any sport that involves schools, the priority should be the safety and welfare of students before, during, and after the games. The approval for a competition is based on ensuring student safety and welfare, which is then communicated to the FSSRU and down to the participating zones.”
Gavidi emphasized that teachers must ensure that every student, whether a player or a spectator, returns home safely and unharmed after game day. He also highlighted the important role students play in these situations.
“When you register as part of a school, you are identified as a student, regardless of age or vocational study status. You represent not just the school but also your family,” Gavidi said.
The principals of RKS and LMS, along with Eastern Zone President Solomone Seru, reassured that such incidents would not happen again.