Back to school...
Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama has encouraged students to work hard, study hard and be kind to one another. He was speaking during the opening of the newly-refurbished teachers’ quarters at the Ballantine Memorial School in Delainavesi yesterday. Mr Bainimarama thanked all students and teachers for their patience during the COVID-19 crisis. Pictured are Year 13 students of Ballantine Memorial School on June 29, 2020.
The $660,000 newly-refurbished Ballantine Memorial School teachers’ quarters will have a flow-on effect on teachers and the quality of education they provide.
Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama said the investment expressed the importance of teachers and their contribution to society.
Assistant Board Chairman of the School Fotu Kolinisau commended Government for its role. During a talanoa session, he sought Government assistance for the refurbishment of the school kitchen and dining area for the 173 borders.
He said the building was old and run down and needed repairs.
Mr Kolinisau informed the Prime Minister that the school owed the Lami Town Council $39,000 in town rate arrears and $36,000 to the Fiji Water Authority for water bills from the past seven years.
Mr Kolinisau also requested the Ministry of Education if the free education grant for the upcoming term could be released to allow the school to prepare for the next term.
Ministry of Education Deputy Secretary (Primary/Secondary), Timoci Bure, said there were certain documents that should be provided to the ministry that would ensure the release of the grant.
“Schools are to send in their audited financial report, annual general meeting minutes and the principal needs to update the school roll before we release the grants,” Mr Bure said.
“The schools that are yet to receive theirs are because the requirements have not been met.
“I have spoken to the principal of the school and they can expect their grant by next week.”