Forty-Four (44) schools in the Western Division have been affected by termite infestation, forcing students to study in temporary tents provided by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
Education Minister Aseri Radrodro told Parliament this week that 11 schools have been severely impacted.
“We are currently being confronted with termite infestation in Western schools, and we are thankful to UNICEF for providing temporary tents for classroom use,” Mr Radrodro said.
“Forty-four schools in the Western Division were affected, with 11 schools severely affected.
“Currently, there are about two schools — St Thomas Primary and Lovu Sangam Primary.”
He said a recent audit of the Suva–Nausori corridor by the Australian Government Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) also flagged classroom overcrowding issues and a need for better water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities.
“We acknowledge the report by DFAT on the audit of the Suva-Nausori corridor, which highlights classroom overcrowding and the need for more appropriate WASH facilities to be constructed around 45 schools.
“Preliminary work is already underway for the construction of three new schools – Vatuwaqa Primary School, Suva Primary School, and the new Davuilevu Secondary School, with funding from DFAT.”
Mr Radrodro acknowledged that many school buildings were ageing, having withstood extreme weather and were no longer safe or suitable for learning.
