FOR generations, parents on the remote island of Matuku often faced a painful choice, uprooted their families and moved to Viti Levu so their children could access secondary education.
Alternatively, they’d leave their young ones in the care of relatives.
But that sacrifice will now be consigned to the dustbins of history.
Earlier this year, Matuku Secondary School, the first of its kind on the island, opened its doors to 21 pioneering students and seven staff members.
Leading this historic chapter is its first principal, Nemani Kailutu, a man who describes his role not simply as a posting, but as the fulfilment of a divine purpose.
“It is an honour, and sometimes humbling, because we are establishing something new, something that is part of God’s purpose and plan,” he said.
“We are realising what was once a dream and bringing it to fruition.”
Originally from Naseakula in Macuata, Mr Kailutu now finds himself at the helm of what many on Matuku consider the most significant development in living memory.
The school is currently operating from the tikina or district office building in Yaroi Village, but five purpose-built classrooms are nearing completion, with students expected to move in by the end of this year.
Small beginnings, big vision
The school offers subjects such as Agriculture, Home Economics, Basic Technology, and Commercial Studies, with plans already in place to expand the curriculum to Year 10 in 2025.
“We currently have a roll of 21 students. Some of our children came from Viti Levu, while 12 are from the island itself,” Mr Kailutu said.
“The biggest aim was to start somewhere, and we have.”
He credited the Ministry of Education, Divine Homecare Group that is led by Mr Poasa Koroitamana in the United States, the wider Matuku diaspora, and the seven villages and yavusa (tribes) of the island for rallying behind the project.
“I would like to thank everyone who has contributed to the education of the next generation. Thank you for thinking of the future of Matuku and the children who will now be able to study on the island.”
A new chapter for families
For Lincoln St John, a parent from Qalikarua Village, the school has already changed life as he knows it.
“Before, we used to take our children to Viti Levu to study. When they went, we went too, we took the whole family, and the village was left empty,” he said.
His son is the only student from Qalikarua currently enrolled at Matuku Secondary School, a fact he shares with pride and relief.
“Sometimes staying with relatives can be hard, and we don’t know what our children or families go through wherever they are. Now, we have them here.
“We can look after them, monitor their education, and ensure their welfare.”
United for education
The depth of support behind the school was made clear last week during Matuku Day, held on Fiji Day, when islanders from across all seven villages, as well as supporters from Viti Levu and the United States, raised an astonishing $297,773.20 towards completing the classroom blocks.
Mr Kailutu described it as a “new beginning” for the island’s youth.
Mr St John agreed.
“We did not expect so many people to come, even from America and Viti Levu, to give their hearts out towards education and the development of our school.”
He extended special thanks to the Turaga na Tui Matuku, Roko Lorima Niumataiwalu, whose leadership, he said, helped turn talk into reality.
Hope for the next generation
While the mainland grapples with rising social challenges, Mr St John believes Matuku’s new school offers protection as well as opportunity.
“To have a school here on Matuku is a blessing. It keeps our children close, grounded in our values, and gives hope for a better future.”
For now, 21 young students take their lessons inside a borrowed building.
Soon, they will walk into new classrooms built by the hands and hearts of their own people.
And with them, an island long waiting for its chance will finally begin to dream bigger, better and beyond borders.
Qalikarua villager and proud parent, Lincoln St John. Picture: ALIFERETI SAKIASI
Matuku Secondary School’s first principal Nemani Kailutu. Picture: ALIFERETI SAKIASI
Matuku USA representative, Jiujiua Tikoilakeba contributes during the soli at Yaroi Village during the Matuku Day celebrations.
Picture: ALIFERETI SAKIASI
Assistant Minister for Public Works, Meteorological Services and Transport, Naisa Tuinaceva hands over the Certificate of Registration of School to the Turaga na Tui Matuku, Roko Lorima Niumataiwalu. Picture: ALIFERETI SAKIASI
The current Matuku Secondary School is based at the tikina of Matuku (district) office at Yaroi Village. Picture: ALIFERETI SAKIASI
