Beqa Teachers Happy to be Vaccinated
F our teachers of Sauwau District School on Beqa Island were amongst many civil servants that rushed to vaccination centres to get their first jab before today’s deadline.
The rush to vaccination centres around the country followed Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama’s statement issuing deadlines to all civil servants to be vaccinated with at least the first jab of COVID 19 AstraZeneca vaccine by July 12, or go on leave.
Radilaite Turaga, a Year 1 and 2 class teacher based at Sawau District School said she had missed out on the vaccination when the Ministry of Health team visited the Island last month.
“There were a lot of mixed reactions regarding the vaccine and I was confused but I am convinced now that the vaccination will not only protect me, but my family and my students,” Mrs Turaga said.
Year 3 and 4 class teacher, Ioana Talebula said she paid $30 boat fare from the island to come to Navua just to receive her first jab.
“I am happy that I got my first jab today as I will no longer be a threat to my family or community,” Mrs Talebula said.
Kindergarten teacher, Luisa Nunakoro said it was everyone’s responsibility to safeguard their families and communities and if that required vaccination, so be it.
“COVID-19 is no joke. It doesn’t differentiate between rich or poor, young or adults. It will not just kill the economy but our people too. Vaccination and adhering to all safety protocols will protect us from this virus,” Mrs Nunakoro said.
Year 5 and 6 teacher, Giria Turaga said upon returning to the island after getting vaccinated, they would advocate to other villagers about the AstraZeneca vaccine.
“We as teachers will advocate for everyone on the Island to get vaccinated, so schools can open we can get back to normalcy soon,” Mrs Turaga said.
Last week, Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama gave an ultimatum to all civil servants to at least vaccinate with first jab of AstraZeneca vaccine by August 15 and fully vaccinate by November 1. Civil servants who do not adhere to these guidelines will be dismissed from work.