First-ever principal grateful to lead island’s historic school

For Nemani Kailutu of Naseakula, Macuata, being part of history as the first principal of Matuku Secondary School is more than just a professional milestone — it’s the realisation of a dream generations in the making.

“It is an honour, and sometimes humbling, because we are establishing something new, something that is part of God’s purpose and plan, something that has been in the hearts of the people of Matuku for years,” Mr Kailutu said. 

“We are realising what was once a dream and bringing it to fruition.”

The school is currently operating from the Tikina building in th evillage of Yaroi, but Mr Kailutu said they expect to move into their new classrooms by November, once the main school block is completed.

The newly established school, the first-ever secondary school on Matuku Island, opened its doors earlier this year with 21 pioneering students and seven staff members, five men and two women.

“We currently have a roll of 21 students. Some of our children came from Viti Levu, while 12 are from the island itself,” he said. 

“The biggest aim was to start somewhere, and we have.”

The school is currently operating from the Tikina building in the village of Yaroi, but Mr Kailutu said they expect to move into their new classrooms by November, once the main school block is completed.

He said five classrooms are under construction, with plans to expand the curriculum next year to include Year 10.

The school currently offers Agriculture, Home Economics, Basic Technology, and Commercial Studies.

“We are thankful to the Ministry of Education and to Divine Homecare for coming on board with the funding of the school, bringing accessible education to the islands,” he said.

Mr Kailutu also acknowledged the Matuku Diaspora and the seven yavusa of the island for their support, many of whom travelled from Viti Levu and the United States to contribute to the cause.

“I would like to thank the Matuku Diaspora and everyone who has contributed to the education of the next generation,” he said. 

“Thank you for thinking of the future of Matuku and the children who will now be able to study on the island.”

Yesterday, during Matuku Day celebrations, the island raised an impressive $297,773.20 to help complete the school’s first few classroom blocks, a moment Mr Kailutu described as a “new beginning” for the island’s youth.