A Lautoka primary school has forged ahead in its battle against the impacts of climate change. It plans and work with the Government to achieve its Sustainable Development Goals.

Lomolomo Public School, situated between Lautoka City and Nadi Town, has also provided safety by way of lighting for children who come to school early.

The school’s head teacher, Newal Umarao, said the 27 new solar lights installed were donated by a former school student and now USA businessman Bimal Singh.

“Mr Singh has done a lot of development and refurbishment for the school and this latest gesture will surely put us ahead of other schools as far as utilising sustainable energy goes,” Mr Umarao said.

“The school will save a lot of money with the use of sustainable energy and its contribution towards the Government’s SDGs.”

“It is a small contribution but it is a beginning and this is the first step. Mr Umarao said it would allow for proper approach to the end of the year when the mornings will be a bit dark.”

“We have installed the lights from the roadside leading to the school and surrounding the buildings so this will help with the security of the children,” he added.

Mr Singh said he wanted the school to be self-sufficient. The solar lighting was an initial step.

“I am just carrying out what my late grandfather, Ram Prasad, asked me and that was to look after the school and the kids who attend classes here,” Mr Singh said.

“There is still some more development to be done, but I am doing this in stages.”

Feedback: nicolette.chambers@fijisun.com.fj