STUDENTS and teachers at Nasesevia Secondary School in the Rukuruku district of Ba can now anticipate safer access, following the inauguration of a new foot crossing on Thursday last week.
The government funded project was completed at an approximate cost of $50,000 through the Ministry of Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management’s Community Access Roads, Footpaths and Footbridges (CARFF) Program.
This investment included the building of a new 7.5 metre elevated concrete foot crossing, equipped with reinforced metal railings and solar-powered lighting, ensuring safer passage.
Nasesevia Secondary School principal Mesulame Uluimoala commended the Government and the ministry for responding to the school’s need for safer access as they had to risk their lives in crossing a creek.
“Our science lab, staff quarters and classrooms are on the other side and previously, students and teachers had to cross the river by foot to get to and from their homes and classrooms,” Mr Uluimoala said.
“During rainy days, the teachers would come out to assist their students to get to school. It was risky and posed a lot of danger.”
He said the new crossing had transformed daily life for the school community and neighbouring villages.
“Today we are glad about the help provided by the Government. This will ensure the safety and security of not only the students and community members, but also our teachers.
“It will make accessibility to education much better for our students and will also ensure children are punctual.”
Minister for Rural and Maritime Development Mosese Bulitavu said the project demonstrated the Government’s commitment to ensuring that rural and interior communities were not left behind in national development.
“This investment is about improving access to education and creating opportunities for our children to learn in a safe and secure environment,” Mr Bulitavu said.
Over the years, students and teachers were forced to cross the creek on foot, often jumping across rocks and navigating dangerous conditions during periods of heavy rainfall.
“No child should have to risk their safety simply to get to school. Through this project, we are removing a major barrier to education and providing peace of mind to parents, teachers, and the wider community.”
