Students at Natusara Primary School in Kadavu are facing interruptions in their education due to a halt in transportation services by boat owners. Despite Education Minister Aseri Radrodro’s assurances that payments to these service providers have been made, parents are contradicting this claim, insisting that the transportation cessation is linked to unpaid dues.
Parent Keleti Saukitoga voiced his frustration, recalling similar transportation issues that arose the previous year due to payment delays. This week alone, 48 students from Dravuni, Buliya, and Narikoso have already missed two consecutive days of school. Parents have approached both Minister Radrodro and local MP Lenora Qereqeretabua to address these ongoing challenges.
Minister Radrodro reiterated that the Ministry has settled its debts with transport providers and has documentation proving that three suppliers, including Natusara Primary School, have been compensated. He stressed that classes should proceed as scheduled and expressed disbelief at the transportation issues given that payments had been completed.
This situation underscores the persistent difficulties faced by students in remote areas regarding reliable transport access, emphasizing an urgent need for a stable transportation system to facilitate education. There is a hopeful outlook that, with both the Ministry’s commitment and the community’s concerns brought to light, effective measures can soon be implemented, ensuring consistent and safe access to schooling for these students.
Moreover, this incident highlights the critical importance of continuous communication among the Ministry of Education, local transport providers, and school communities to avoid future disruptions and to enhance educational accessibility. The collaboration is essential to foster a supportive environment for students and their education.
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