Northern Island Schools Without Classrooms

Two maritime schools in the Northern Division continue to operate without proper classrooms, years after being dam­aged by natural disasters.

Laucala District School, located in Dreketi Village on Qamea Island, was severely damaged by a land­slide in December 2016.

Yadua Village School on Yadua Island in Bua was hit by 'Tropical Cyclone Yasa' in 2020.

Since then, students have been studying in temporary shelters, village halls, and community centres, awaiting the construction of proper classrooms.

School management teams have made tempo­rary arrangements for students while awaiting the Ministry of Educa­tion's intervention.

Permanent Secretary for Education, Selina Kuruleca, confirmed that the 2024-2025 fi­nancial year budget includes provisions to rebuild classrooms at these schools.

However, she high­lighted logistical challenges.

transport building materials to these schools on the islands," Ms Kuruleca said.

"We are working with other government min­istries to complete this in a timely manner be­ca use the barge must be able to reach these schools."

She added the min­istry, like the affected communities, does not want children to con­tinue studying in tents.

"We are collaborating with communities and corporate organisations that have come forward to assist us in this rehabilitation work."

Fiji Teachers Union general sec­retary, Muniappa Goundar, criti­cised the delay, saying the ministry should have made earlier arrange­ments.

"It shouldn't take four years to or­ganise a barge. We're already in the third term, and students and teach­ers are preparing for exams," Mr Goundar said.

Despite the delays, Mr Goundar thanked the school management and villagers for creating tempo­rary learning spaces.

"Their efforts have ensured learn­ing continues for the children."

Ms Kuruleca also confirmed there were no other schools in the North with unresolved damage from natu­ral disasters.

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