Vatuwaqa Primary School, located in Suva, is set to receive urgent repairs following considerable damage from a fire in 2022, which left key facilities in ruins. The recent Revised Infrastructure Assessment Report for the Suva-Nausori corridor indicates that the school remains closed pending necessary demolition and reconstruction to ensure compliance with safety standards.
The report sheds light on a pressing issue affecting the education sector, revealing a lack of classrooms in the region. Specifically, primary schools require an additional 168 classrooms, while secondary schools are short by 81 classrooms to accommodate the increasing number of students. Alarmingly, 70 percent of the surveyed schools have surpassed acceptable classroom capacity, leading to overcrowded environments detrimental to student learning.
Paula Manumanunitoga, General Secretary of the Fijian Teachers Association, has acknowledged the government’s efforts to address these concerns but pointed out that overcrowding is a longstanding issue in urban schools, exacerbated by restrictions on school fundraising. She advocates for the lifting of these restrictions under Ministry oversight, which would allow schools to raise funds for crucial infrastructure enhancements.
Moreover, the report highlights the urgent need for improved sanitation facilities, noting that many schools do not meet the ideal student-to-toilet ratio, a situation that adversely affects female student attendance. It emphasizes the importance of upgrading sanitation to foster a better learning environment and reinforce structural safety to prevent future hazards.
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has highlighted the necessity of addressing these challenges and confirmed that the government is formulating a comprehensive Education Master Infrastructure Plan. This strategic initiative aims to repair, upgrade, and construct new school facilities, thereby enhancing the overall learning experience throughout Fiji.
The Australian Government has also committed its support, viewing the assessment report as a crucial step towards resolving these infrastructure challenges. With renewed efforts to mobilize funding and community involvement, there is a sense of optimism for meaningful improvements in educational infrastructure, ensuring a safe and conducive learning environment for every child in the Suva-Nausori corridor.
While the plight of Vatuwaqa Primary School underscores broader issues within the educational landscape, the proactive response from the government and various stakeholders indicates a promising commitment to ensuring that every child has access to quality education in safe facilities.
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