The Minister for Education, Heritage and Arts, Hon. Dr Mahendra Reddy is visiting schools in the Western Division to distribute exercise books and stationery to students affected by Cyclone Winston

Minister Reddy today distributed exercise books and stationery packs that were donated by Yaadein Vision, (a NGO from Australia) to the students of Lololo Primary School and Drasa Primary school.

During his visit, Minister Reddy encouraged those that were affected to continue the re-building phase, especially towards returning to school and continuing with their education.

Both the schools that the Minister visited are located in the interior of Lautoka and caters for students from nearby rural areas.

The communities consist of mostly low-income earners, who suffered a great loss and devastation during the Cyclone. School books and other school stationery were one of the most needed items for the students and was welcomed by the students and parents.

As most schools in affected areas normalize for classes today, Minister Reddy said his mission is to ensure that all avenues are sought to provide support, guidance and motivation to the students, teachers and parents in ensuring that children return to school. He added that the priority area for his Ministry was to ensure that no child was left behind as they seek to restore and re-build educational infrastructure in the affected areas.

Minister Reddy also said that the key focus area of the Bainimarama government is to provide quality education to all Fijians and his Ministry will continue to work towards that commitment.

Minister Reddy will be visiting the schools in the interior of Ba, Tavua and Rakiraki this week.