Community learning centre opens to support students, tackle dropouts

A new community learning centre in Cuvu, Nadroga, is expected to help tackle student dropout rates and improve educational outcomes for young people in the district and surrounding communities.

The Cuvu Community Learning Centre (CCLC) was established in response to concerns about student dropout rates and the educational challenges faced by young people, particularly those with limited access to academic support and learning resources at home.

The centre provides a safe and supportive environment where students can strengthen their literacy and numeracy skills, complete homework and assignments, prepare for examinations and receive additional academic guidance.

CCLC founder and educator Teresa Rietberg said the centre was created to help young people realise their potential through education.

“We wanted to create a safe space where students feel encouraged, supported and inspired to learn. Education can change lives, and the centre exists to help give our children and young people every opportunity to succeed,” Ms Rietberg said.

The initiative is supported through a partnership with Shangri-La Yanuca Island, Fiji, and its Bilo Bar Club, a long-standing charity organisation made up of loyal returning guests and multi-generational visitors to the resort.

Resort manager Sunil Beerbul said the resort was proud to support programmes that create opportunities for young people and strengthen surrounding communities.

“The Cuvu Community Learning Centre represents hope, opportunity and investment in the future of our young people. We are honoured to support an initiative that provides students with the encouragement, guidance and safe learning environment they need to thrive academically and personally,” Mr Beerbul said.

Imperial Bilo of the Bilo Bar Club, Andrew Neaves, said it was fitting that the opening coincided with the club’s 45th anniversary celebrations.

“For 45 years, the Bilo Bar Club has remained committed to supporting communities surrounding Yanuca Island. Seeing the opening of the Cuvu Community Learning Centre during this special week makes the occasion even more meaningful because it reflects the club’s ongoing belief in investing in people and creating opportunities for future generations,” Mr Neaves said.

As long-time supporters of the Nadroga community, Shangri-La Yanuca Island, Fiji and the Bilo Bar Club continue to support initiatives that promote community wellbeing, youth development and sustainable social impact.

The resort also acknowledged the commitment of educators, community leaders, volunteers and partners whose shared vision helped bring the centre to life.

The CCLC operates on weekdays from 3pm to 6pm and serves students in Years 4 to 8, Years 12 and 13, and tertiary students from the seven villages of Cuvu and Voua Village.