LDS seniors give Soloira District School a facelift
ON Friday, November 20, 2020, Kaila! visited Soloira District School in Serea, Naitasiri, to see the work done by students of Latter-Day Saints Church College in Tamavua.
Around 67 Year 13 and TVET students of LDS College engaged themselves in a special service project this year that took them to Soloira District School.
The idea of the service project was prompted by a requirement for the Year 13 graduating students of this year to carry out a service project in the community.
The service program was spearheaded by the vocational students (TVET students), but it involved all the school’s Year 13 students. The students submitted a proposal, which the school principal and some teachers endorsed given the wonderful opportunity and exposure it provided the students.
The students were counselled on which location and with what particular services they would carry out.
A team was sent up to Soloira District School to present a sevusevu to the vanua seeking permission to conduct the project, which was well received by the vanua.
Students who assisted in the project mastered skills in cabinet making, electrical fitter mechanic, cookery and agriculture.
“The students have the opportunity to serve in missions after completing school. When they serve, they can practice what they preach and not only share the Word of God, but they will be actual doers of the word,” said college principal William Ratusaki.
LDS Year 13 student Annette Gock says it is a blessing to go out and see the way of life in the village instead of being out in the city where everything was readily available for the people.
Annette along with Lolohea Koronamua and Kiana Katafono were responsible for the artworks on the school premises.
Gerald Brown, who is also a Y13 student, says he feels good to serve others and not expect anything back.
Gerald used to do community work around his area, but this was the first time for him to be engaged in a big project, which brings smiles to the faces of his brothers and sisters at Soloira District School.
“Every day when we arrive, the little ones would be standing across us smiling, so we knew they were happy. They don’t miss a day to meet and greet their brothers and sisters,” said Gerald.
Students were involved in fixing the doors, windows, painting and more.
Soloira District School headteacher Alipate Rokobiau could not hold back his tears when he saw the LDS bus pullover with students ready to finish their last day of service at the school.
“I just want to take this time to thank God Almighty for the answered prayers,” said Mr Rokobiau.
“I also would like to thank the LDS school principal, teachers and students for the opportunity. Vinaka vakalevu for allowing these lovely kind-hearted students to do their service program in our school.”
“There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up.” ― JOHN HOLMES
“When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed.” ― MAYA ANGELOU