Parents of Ratu Epeli Ravoka Campus of Technical College of Fiji (TCF) request for two dormitories have been granted by the Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama.

During the opening of the campus in Bua yesterday, this request was brought forward to Mr Bainimarama by the head of campus Marika Raqona on behalf of the parents.

Mr Raqona said there were students who were travelling from very far including those from nearby islands.

“Students are from Kubulau District, Wainunu, Galoa Island and Nasarawaqa,” Mr Raqona said.

“There is a great need to assist these students as they come from wide spread geographical locations.

“We have also noted that there has been increased number of students.

“In the first trimester we had 80 students and then additional 40 students in second trimester enrolled for two programmes, such as national certificate in Automotive Mechanical Engineering Level Two and National Certificate in Carpentry Level Two.”

Mr Raqona said in the next trimester they are planning to introduce catering programmes.

Mr Bainimarama immediately consulted the Minister for Education Mahendra Reddy who was also present at the opening.

Mr Bainimarama said the need of students and parents would be considered.

Then the Republic of Fiji Military Force (RFMF) engineer Viko Tagivetaua was called forward.

“Can you look into the plan to construct two dormitories; one to cater for female students and the other for male students,” Mr Bainimarama asked Mr Tagivetaua.

“Sir, we already have a plan, however we need to get new quotations,” Mr Tagivetaua responded.

Mr Bainimarama assured Mr Raqona that his request would definitely be looked into.

Meanwhile, Fiji Sun met up with some parents who applauded Mr Bainimarama for attending to their plight.

“I am so happy that the Government at least opened TCF campus where my 17-year-old son, Kolaia Loboro can study,” Winter Loboro said.

The 50-year-old mother of Wainunu, Bua said her son joined TCF, after dropping out from Ratu Luke Secondary School in Bua.

48-year-old Madhu Malti of Namau Village in Bua said she was thankful to the Government for opening TCF in Bua.

“I am happy at least my only child, Ashneel Prasad can go to TCF from home to pursue trade certificate without travelling to Viti Levu or Labasa,” Mrs Malti said.

A 35-year-old father and a dalo farmer of Vuya Village in Bua Gabiriele Maibola, said he can’t wait to see his son attending classes while staying at the dormitory.

Edited by Maraia Vula

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