Education Minister Aseri Radrodro urged students of Queen Victoria School to take ownership of the new school building which was opened last week at Matavatucou, in Tailevu.
The project worth $3 million consists of sixteen classrooms and was funded by the Indonesian Government in a bilateral agreement. Officiating at the event Mr Radrodro said it was important to recognise education as a shared responsibility.
“Queen Victoria School is an area we should not take for granted,” he said.
“We therefore should maintain these school buildings in a manner that recognises the efforts and commitment that went into making it possible.”
Mr Radrodro commended the staff of QVS for their resilience and passion for teaching despite the devastation caused by Tropical Cyclone Winston at the school in 2016.
“You have been a driving force in ensuring that our students receive quality education despite the challenges faced during the rebuilding process.
“To all our old scholars, parents and guardians, your staunch unwavering commitment to the school in promoting holistic student development is much appreciated and we trust that it will continue as the legacy of the school demands.
“On that note I stand here to challenge you, the current students of Queen Victoria School.
“This partnership has restored a state-of-the-art learning environment. ”
Mr Radrodro said during his time as an old scholar of the school, they did not have the luxury which students have nowadays.
“But through hard work and limited resources, we survived and earned our places in society today. “So you should reflect and ask yourselves, how will these privileges enhance my education?
“Today as we celebrate another milestone achievement, it rekindles memories in history when there were celebrations, when QVS lay its foundation in its permanent place back in 1950.
“Times have changed, when you leave the gates of Vulinitu you will compete with other students and do not be misled with the perception that you will get first preference in the world of further education and employment. “There will be others who will be better than you, do not be deterred.
“If you do not get recognised as a leader in this school, do not be swayed.
“Many of us were just another student in this school, we did not get selected as student prefects or leaders, many did not get selected to represent the school in the area of sports, but that did not deter them.
“We went out into the world and demanded our space.”
Ministry of Foreign Affairs Indonesia’s Director- General, Dr Teuku Faizsyah said the commissioning of the building signified an important milestone it its bilateral relations.
“It signifies the importance of continued commitment to strengthen cooperation in the education sector,” he said.
“The Government of Indonesia contributed to the’ Adopt the School’ program in 2019 and 2020 as initiated by the Fijian Government.
“The rehabilitation of QVS is part of Indonesia’s commitment to assist the Fijian Government post Tropical Cyclone Winston.
“A commitment that is based on deep, long-standing relationship based on mutual trust and support.”
