Aust pledges more aid
THE Australian government will continue to support Fiji’s efforts to improve its local disaster preparedness and improve the nation’s education standards.
True to this, the Australian High Commissioner to Fiji John Feakes and Minister for Education Rosy Akbar handed over Buruwa Youth Memorial Primary School and Nasesevia Secondary School their brand new teachers’ quarters this week.
Expected to benefit 106 teachers and 1454 students, Mr Feakes said this initiative was built on government’s program of assistance aimed at helping those affected by natural disasters — an initiative which was supported by the Australian government.
Mr Feakes said the Education Ministry and the Australian government had been working together to provide materials and labour for repairs and restoration in six flood-affected schools within the area.
He said Australia valued its partnership with Fiji and that this was just one of the many ways in which both governments continued to work together to support goals for greater good.
“Australia is committed to supporting Fiji’s efforts. The Australian government recognises the role of teachers as first responders in schools and the importance of meeting their basic needs in providing an enabling, positive and safe learning environment for the children of Fiji. We are dedicated to supporting Fiji’s vision to improve learning outcomes for all,” he said.
While also speaking at the handover, Ms Akbar said upgrading school infrastructure in particular was a significant area of need.
“There is a lot to be done and we are conducting a survey of school infrastructure to identify what facilities and infrastructure are needed in schools,” she said.
“We are thankful that Australia is supporting us in this area.
“The construction of two new staff quarters for Buruwa Youth Memorial Primary School and Nasesevia Secondary School and repairs at four other TC Josie-affected schools, will strengthen the teachers’ capacity to facilitate quality teaching and learning.”