Reddy warns if allegations were true, strict action would be taken

Investigations have begun on allegations that some teachers and staff of a Navua school had drunk alcohol on school premises.

Minister for Education Mahendra Reddy confirmed yesterday he had ordered  the investigation.

The school in question is Rampur Primary School.

The alleged incident came to light through pictures posted on Facebook that showed teachers inside a classroom with alcohol.

School headteacher, Nilesh Chand, confirmed that the teachers were drinking in the school premises, but after school hours.

It is also understood that Mr Chand was also at the event, but he claimed to have been drinking grog kava.

When questioned why teachers were drinking on school premises, Mr Chand became defensive and questioned which law prohibited it.

He also defended that pictures put up on Facebook were done through a fake profile.

Mr Reddy said whether pictures were posted through a fake profile was not in question.

“That is not what is of concern. What is of concern is whether these teachers were indeed consuming alcohol on school premises. And, if they were and if investigations prove that, strict actions would be taken against them,” he said.

“We are aware of this issue and I have directed the acting Permanent Secretary to look into the matter.”

Mr Reddy reiterated that consuming alcohol, grog kava and smoking cigarettes on school premises at all hours were strictly not allowed.

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