Community Rallies to Build Bridge
“For the past five years, we’ve seen the daily dangers faced by our children as they cross the river to reach school,” Mr Naiqua said.
Wednesday 07 August 2024 | 17:42
Nailagobokala Primary School students cross on the newly-built bridge at Nadovu, Naitasiri.
For the past four years, students at Nailagobokala Primary School in the highlands of Naitasiri have faced a perilous journey to school.
After the old culvert on their access road was washed away, these young learners were forced to use bamboo rafts to cross the river, navigating waters that could be ankle-deep or even knee-deep.
Alarmed by the dangers their children faced daily, the villagers of Nadovu took decisive action.
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Despite repeated pleas for Government’s assistance, Nailagobokala Primary School manager, Ratu Solomoni Naiqua, reported no response from the authorities.
“For the past five years, we’ve seen the daily dangers faced by our children as they cross the river to reach school,” Mr Naiqua said.
Undeterred by the lack of official support, the villagers and the school committee launched a fundraising campaign to build a new bridge.
This initiative, driven by the parents’ desire to ensure safe and reliable access for their children, saw the community come together in a remarkable display of solidarity.
Over the past three months, the villagers and the Parents-Teachers Association worked tirelessly to raise $9000.
Their collective efforts paid off, enabling the construction of a new bridge that would safeguard the students’ daily commute.
“I truly appreciate the dedication of the parents,” Mr Naiqua said, expressing his gratitude.
“It demonstrates the remarkable impact a community can make with limited resources.”
The bridge was officially opened last Friday.
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