Verata parents urge Budget support for rural students

Parents in Verata in Tailevu are urging Government to improve support for rural students, with some children walking up to seven miles home because of limited transport services.

As the country prepares for the 2026–2027 National Budget later this month, parents are making an emotional plea to Government leaders: "Remember the children who walk miles to school every day."

For families in this village, getting an education is not as simple as catching a bus. High school students often walk long distances home each afternoon, facing rain and safety concerns along the way.

Villager Ana Turagalailai said the struggles faced by students in rural communities are often overlooked, with most school developments appearing concentrated in urban areas.

She said it is heartbreaking to watch children return home soaked after walking through heavy rain while trying to keep their school books dry.

"We feel sorry for them when they come back with wet uniforms after walking such a long distance," she said.

Ms Turagalailai said parents, especially those with daughters, constantly worry about their children's safety because some students are forced to walk alone when transport is unavailable.

With bus services operating on limited schedules, many students have little choice but to make the journey on foot.

As Government finalises its budget plans ahead of the June 26 announcement, Ms Turagalailai is urging education officials to visit rural communities and witness the challenges students face every day.

She said children in maritime and rural areas deserve the same opportunities as those in towns and cities.

"Our children are working hard to get an education. We are asking Government to come down to our level and see what they go through every day," she said.

Ms Turagalailailai said the upcoming budget presents an opportunity for Government to invest more in grassroots communities and ensure no child is disadvantaged because of where they live.