750 students to have solar lights for night studies

More than 600 students across Fiji will participate in a hands-on, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)-focused education programme next week.

Nadi Airport School students will learn about renewable energy, explore the science of solar technology, and personally assemble solar-powered study lights to be given to children from communities that have no access to grid electricity and sufficient light to study at night.

The educational initiative forms part of a broader commitment to equip students across the Pacific with critical STEM knowledge; empower them become agents of change in their communities.

“This is more than just a science lesson - it’s a real-world opportunity for our students to make a difference in the lives of other Fijian children,” said Madhur Prakash, Nadi Airport School head of school.

“It’s a perfect blend of education, empathy, and innovation.”

The programme will allow students to:

•  Understand renewable energy solutions and solar technology; and
•  Develop practical, hands-on STEM and critical thinking skills.

The event is supported by Airbus, a longstanding partner of Solar Buddy, and conducted by volunteers from Airbus, Fiji Airways, and LECT.

Each student will build a Solar Junior Buddy light, with 750 lights to be distributed to students in the Western Division in collaboration with the Ministry of Education Divisional Office (West).

The event also marks the pilot phase of a planned national rollout of solar-powered study lights for deserving students and teachers in Fiji.

By August last year, SolarBuddy and LECT partnered to deliver solar lights to 3300 students and teachers in the Lau province.

Minister for Education is the chief guest to highlight the Ministry’s commitment to STEM education and equitable access to learning resources at next week’s programme.

The initiative aligns with national priorities to support educational outcomes in off-grid rural and maritime communities and the country’s commitment to 100 per cent renewable energy by 2030.

“Airbus is proud to support this valuable community initiative in Fiji with SolarBuddy and Fiji Airways,” said Stephen Forshaw, Airbus Chief Representative for Australia, NZ and the Pacific.

“It allows our team to support the delivery of renewable energy solutions to people whose lives will be materially improved by access to reliable energy. This is very much part of the on-going commitment of Airbus to social responsibility and sustainable development in the Pacific,” he said.

“We’re proud to support this important initiative alongside SolarBuddy, Airbus, and LECT,” said Andre Viljoen, Fiji Airways managing director.

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