Three teachers of Ratu Kadavulevu School in Tailevu have been transferred to another school after their alleged involvement in a cult-like prayer group.

Education Minister, Mahendra Reddy, confirmed yesterday that they moved the teachers after they had received a report from a concerned parent of a student.

The student was among a group of students who allegedly joined the prayer group in the forest. He had allegedly behaved strangely after the prayer session. Some of the students were even alleged to have refused to attend classes.

The bizarre behavior had caused tension in the school and Police were asked to go to RKS to keep the peace.

The ringleader of the prayer group is alleged to be from nearby Nananu Village.

Police confirmed that some students had willingly returned to the boarding school while others were reluctant. They confirmed they were asked by the ministry last Saturday to maintain the peace between teachers and students.

Concerns have been raised  about the proliferation of small church groups after the conviction and jailing of  pastor Iowane Vakadranu for rape. He is the leader of the Back to Eden church.

In Labasa, Naipote Katonitabua, Permanent Secretary for iTaukei Affairs, said one of the challenges brought about by the winds of change was the emergence of these new churches.

He told the Macuata Provincial Council meeting in Labasa yesterday that the changes directly challenged the traditional culture and lifestyle of the iTaukei.

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