Students of Nasavusavu Public School in Savusavu, Vanua Levu, now have their own playground and a children’s park.

The park, part of the school playground, has slides, frames with platforms for students to climb on, swings, and other amenities where students can enjoy their leisure time.

Savusavu Rotary Club led the group of helpers in building the facilities.

The area was prepared by Scott Ryan of Fulton Hogan Hiways. He provided machinery to prepare the ground and the park and filled them with 60 tonnes of sand.

Nasavusavu Public School headteacher Reapi Nacolaiviu, during the opening ceremony, emphasised on the importance of allowing children the opportunity to play.

“Do not underestimate children’s play,” Mrs Nacolaiviu said.

“It may look like leisure time, but when children are playing in the house, fighting imaginary dragons or organising a game of hopscotch, they are actually developing crucial life skills and preparing their brains for the challenges of adulthood.”

Cakaudrove education officer Peniasi Sau was the chief guest to the opening of the park and the ground this week.

He quoted research findings on the benefits of play, including increasing their self-awareness, self-esteem and self respect. It allows them to increase their confidence through developing new skills, and offers opportunities for children of all backgrounds and abilities to play together.

The project was organised by Claire Voldeng of Rotary Club of Savusavu.

She organised finance from the Rotary Club of District 5370 in Canada.

Savusavu Rotary Club president Barbara L’Ami spoke for all involved when she said: “It has been a huge project stretching over four years, and we are all delighted to see the results.”

“The primary sponsor was the Rotary Club of Nisku/Leduc of Canada which gave a generous donation and did most of the organisation.”

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