Parents and teachers yesterday thanked Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and the Chinese Ambassador to Fiji Qian Bo for their new Lokia Community Kindergarten in Rewa.

They sang songs of praise and patriotism to express their joy.

Mr Bainimarama helped to finish the project. The kindergarten was built through a $20,000 assistance from the embassy.

For 10 years the pre-school children attended classes at the village hall.

Sometimes classes were cancelled because the hall was used for other purposes.

Preschool teacher, Elesi Lotu said:

“To see the Prime Minister of Fiji officially open the school is a milestone achievement for our village.

“The school started in 2010 through the ‘Save The Children Fund and in 2012 it got registered and since then we have always used the village hall as our classroom.”

Ms Lotu said the new kindy would enhance better teaching and learning for the children.

Parent Toga Bale said: “I want to also thank the Lokia women’s group who have been a constant support system for myself and the kids,”

“We are now happy that we will not have to worry anymore about cancelling classes.”

Verena Navila another parent said, “The school is now located near to the main road so it’s become more accessible to us.”

“It has also given the opportunity for those living near the settlements to send their children to kindergarten,” she said.

Mr Bainimarama praised the community spirit and the commitment to improve the education of their children.

Mr Qian also congratulated the community for its efforts and stressed the importance of education.

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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