Despite the impacts of Severe Tropical Cyclone Yasa in Bua and Macuata, schools in affected areas had a positive start yesterday as most students turned up in uniforms and civilian clothes and in big numbers.

Lekutu Secondary School manager Ovini Baleinamau said the turnout from students was unexpected.

“We prepared ourselves for a low turnout but we were mistaken as most students turned up for school and their parents accompanied them as well,” he said.

“Parents and students also came from the outer islands for enrolment but they will return because we have to prepare a place for them to live in.

“However, today (yesterday) has been successful and we thank the parents for staying positive and supporting their children.”

At Dreketi Primary School, president Yakat Ali said the assistance from kind donors had greatly assisted parents.

“We have five tents for students to use and most of them have turned up for classes which is very encouraging,” he said.

“We thank all kind donors for their help because it has helped students come to school.”

In the coastal area of Macuata, students of Cadranasiga District School travelled by boat from nearby villages to attend school.

Officials who preferred to remain anonymous said some students turned up in civilian clothes while most wore school uniforms.