New ECE centre to open doors for 100 Taveuni children

About 100 children in Taveuni are set to benefit from improved early learning opportunities as a new Early Childhood Education (ECE) centre in Naqara nears completion.

The project, led by St Mary's Coptic Orthodox Church, includes four new classrooms designed to provide a modern and conducive learning environment for young learners.

During a visit to the site, Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations Agni Deo Singh said the development would strengthen access to quality early childhood education in the community.

"This project is an investment in our children's future," Mr Singh said.

He said access to quality early childhood education was critical in shaping a child's future and supporting national development.

Mr Singh also stressed that while Government continued to invest in education, families played an equally important role in children's development.

He encouraged parents to actively prepare their children for school by providing guidance at home and participating in community and faith-based activities.

Mr Singh acknowledged Shane Construction for its work on the project and said the new classrooms would provide a safe and supportive environment for children to learn and grow.

He reaffirmed the Coalition Government's commitment to education through free education, transport assistance, textbooks and back-to-school programmes.

Mr Singh said the goal was to ensure every child had an equal opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background.

He also thanked the church and community stakeholders for supporting the project.

The facility is expected to improve access to early childhood education for families in Taveuni while supporting long-term development outcomes.