TC Yasa: 85 Schools Either Damaged Or Destroyed

Eight-five schools have been damaged or destroyed by Tropical Cyclone Yasa in the Northern Division.

This was confirmed by Minister for Education Rosy Akbar who is currently in Labasa.

This means approximately that 6000 students from these 85 schools in Bua, Macuata and Cakaudrove have been affected.

Ms Akbar said most of the schools had teachers’ quarters and they too were badly damaged.

“Lekutu Secondary School in Bua had the most teachers’ quarters damaged and destroyed,” Ms Akbar said.

“Most of the schools will be able to fix the roof before the 2021 academic year begins except for Dreketi Primary School, Dreketi Central College, Lekutu Secondary School and Nasarawaqa Primary School.”

She said a team from Construction Implementation Unit (CIU), Ministry of Economy had been on the ground carrying out the assessment and have recommended these schools to be built according to the National Building Codes of Fiji.

She explained this would take a lot of time which means the schools have two options.

“Either to build them temporary learning structures using building materials or provide temporary learning spaces (tent),” she said.

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