Avoiding the rush, Labasa families shop early for new school term

Back-to-school shopping has begun in the northern town of Labasa, with some parents choosing to get an early start to avoid the usual last-minute rush.

Nirmala Chandra of Korotari, Labasa, said she preferred to shop early this year after facing challenges with late preparation in the past.

Ms Chandra said getting everything organised in advance ensured her children had the supplies they needed for the new school term. She said she also wanted to avoid the busy atmosphere in Labasa Town as the reopening of schools approached.

“I wanted to avoid the rush,” Ms Chandra said.

The mother of two was shopping with her younger child, Arush Chandra, while her older daughter is currently in Suva. She said Arush was excited to begin primary school.

“Last year he was in kindergarten, and next year he will start Year One, and he is very excited,” she said.

“Taking the time to prepare early gives me confidence that my children will be ready for the academic year.”

She said shopping ahead of time also allowed her to compare prices and make informed choices before the busy period begins.

For Ms Chandra, early preparation remains the key to a smooth start for her children.

Sharing similar sentiments, Ronita Karan of Tabucola, Labasa, said she had already completed shopping for her two children.

Ms Karan said buying stationery and other essentials in advance ensured she was fully prepared.

Sushma Lal of Lajonia, Labasa, said she also chose to shop early this year to plan her budget properly.

Vinod Kumar of Tabucola, Labasa, said he, too, had finished his back-to-school shopping for his three children.

The 2026 school term starts on January 26.