The Australian Government have aside set twelve and a half million dollars to assist schools that were impacted by Tropical Cyclone Yasa and  TC Ana in the Northern Division.

The Australian Government’s Fiji Programme Support Facility Leader, John Farquharson and the Acting Counsellor Development Erin Magee visited nine schools that were affected by the category five Tropical Cyclones.

Speaking to the Fiji Sun, Acting Counsellor Development Erin Magee said they were looking into assisting schools that were recently damaged by TC Yasa and TC Ana.

Ms Magee said they were looking at the longer term rehabilitation of schools and were scoping to engage an architect and some contractors to rebuild the schools including teachers quarters and libraries.

She said nine schools have been included in the phase one of the project.

After the completion of phase one, in partnership with the Ministry of Education and Ministry of Economy they would then look at other schools that need support.

She said the money had already been directed through a financing agreement with the Ministry of Economy.

Permanent Secretary for Education Anjeela Jokhan said Australia has been an important partner in education for a long time.

“They have been contributing towards several core functions particularly in the academic work, systems improvement and of course the most significant is the development of the Fiji educational management information systems (FEMIS).

“Australia also has been giving support during disasters which has benefited our schools,” she said.Ms Jokhan arrived at the Waiqele Airport yesterday afternoon for her first Northern Tour after being posted to her current position.

School Heads

School Heads of the affected school thanked the Australian Government for their continued support in assisting the Fijian Government rebuild schools and provide an environment that is safe, sound and durable for learning.

Schools that were visited were; Maramarua District School, Dreketi Primary School, Lekutu Secondary School, Lekutu District School, Ratu Luke Secondary School.

Permanent Secretary of Education Anjeela Jokhan is expected to join the team in Savusavu today.

Feedback:  laisa.kabulevu@fijisun.com.fj