Matua Programme Helps Improve Lives

The Matua Programme at Nabua Secondary School, outside Suva, is making a significant improvement in the lives of its students.

Young people, mostly school drop-outs who were unable to complete their high school education due to personal circumstances, are given a second chance at the school, offering them a new lease on life.

Nabua Secondary School is the only educational institution in Fiji offering this incentive. Since its  inception two decades ago, hundreds of adult students have attended the programme to complete their secondary school education and pursue tertiary studies.

Yesterday, more than 42 students graduated. One of the graduates, Lusiana Turaga, said the programme inspired them to pursue their educational goals.

Ms Turaga said the programme renewed her hopes.

"It was quite fitting that we had students from diverse back-grounds, which was a new experience for me," Ms Turaga said.

“Engaging in this programme fosters social inclusion for elder citizens by acknowledging their con-tributions to society and ensuring they are not left behind.

“It offers seniors an opportunity to remain connected within their communities, enhancing their so-cial well-being.”

Ms Turaga said the programme also helped provide financial stability and access to services, helping to improve life and ensured that students when they progressed in life, lived with dignity and comfort.

She said the common goal of students who went through the programme was to become better versions of themselves.

Feedback: sosiveta.korobiau@fijisun.com.fj