Construction of new classrooms begins
EDUCATION Minister Rosy Akbar says the construction of new classrooms worth $340,000 will soon result in students of Lekutu Secondary School in Bua moving out of their tent classrooms.
However, she said the seven new classrooms were a temporary measure and would only be able to withstand Category 3 cyclones.
“We need to get you out of the tent classrooms because the weather has not been conducive to learning,” she said.
“It will take about six to 10 weeks to complete construction of these classrooms but we will build the permanent classrooms.”
Ms Akbar said a permanent Category 5 resistant structure would be funded by the Australian government.
“Government will remain committed to providing education for all our children and that is our priority,” she said.
“It is your duty to study hard and do well and for those of you having external exams, we know it has been a challenging year but you do your best.
“Students are still supported with free bus fares and school fees and we will continue to support our students as we lighten the burden on our parents.”
Ms Akbar is on Vanua Levu, giving cycloneaffected schools stationery, desks and new buildings.
Lekutu Secondary School manager Ovini Baleinamau said the new classrooms were a blessing.
“We are glad that Government has prioritised the welfare of our children in providing new classrooms for them and it means a lot,” he said.
The school was among 15 schools in the North that would be funded by the Australian government’s $12 million aid program for schools.