Matuku raises over $200k for first secondary school

In a powerful display of unity and self-reliance, the people of Matuku have raised $297,773.20 to fund the completion of the island’s first-ever secondary school.

For the hundreds of villagers who travelled to Matuku over the Fiji Day weekend for the Matuku Day celebrations, the funds raised mark a milestone that will transform access to education for children in one of Fiji’s most remote island communities.

Matuku day was commemorated alongside Fiji Day last Friday at the Yaroi village grounds in Matuku.

Hundreds of villagers from the island’s seven villages gathered in a united effort to support the project.

The Matuku community living abroad, particularly in the United States, contributed more than $150,000 to the total, joining hands with families on the island and across Fiji to make the long-held dream a reality.

Assistant Minister for Transport Naisa Tuinaceva, who was also present at the event, commended the people of Matuku for their initiative and determination.

“We have to be thankful for the initiative shown by the people of Matuku,” Mr Tuinaceva said. 

“There are many forms of assistance available, but for a remote island like Matuku to take the first step and fund the building of its own secondary school, we are truly grateful.”

He said the government encourages such community-led efforts under the solesolevaki spirit, which promotes collaboration and resilience.

“This is what government has always emphasised, to have our people be resilient, to take ownership, and not depend too heavily on government,” he said.

“The youths and children of Matuku now have something powerful to follow, the example of their elders who have turned a dream into reality through their own sweat and sacrifice.”

The funds raised will go directly towards completing the first blocks of the new Matuku Secondary School, which is currently under construction and expected to open its new classrooms by November.