School Infrastructure: CRUMBLING

A new report has revealed the crumbling state of school infrastructure within the Suva-Nausori corridor.

This includes overcrowded classrooms and termite-infested buildings, putting students' futures at risk.

The Infrastructure Assessment Report paints a grim picture, highlighting the urgent need for reform as schools in the Suva-Nausori corridor struggle to keep pace with growing student populations.

The shocking findings show that 70 percent of schools within Suva and Nausori have surpassed its designed capacity, with overcrowding reaching crisis levels.

An audit of 86 schools revealed that an astonishing 249 additional classrooms are urgently needed to accommodate the current student numbers.

Without immediate intervention, the quality of education is in jeopardy, the report warns.

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, speaking at the unveiling of the report, stressed the alarming impact of years of poor maintenance on the condition of schools.

"The deterioration of our schools has reached a critical point, with repairs now costing more than ever before," he said.

"Our students deserve better, and we must act now to fix this failing infrastructure."

Adding to the crisis, many of the region's oldest schools are suffering from severe termite infestations, further compounding the problem.

Mr Rabuka called for swift action to address the growing threat and protect the learning environments that children depend on.

Alongside the PM, outgoing Australian High Commissioner Ewen McDonald, also voiced concerns, pointing out the importance of the findings in driving future investments.

"This report provides us with vital data to prioritise the urgent repairs and upgrades that are needed to give our children the safe, modern education they deserve," Mr McDonald said.

The report marks the beginning of a long and much-needed overhaul of Fiji's education system.

As the Government and its international partners work to address these issues, there is hope that students in the Suva-Nausori corridor will one day learn in safe, well-equipped, and modern facilities.

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