A PRIMARY school in the interior of Ra is the latest to benefit from a BSP Community Project that has delivered renewable energy, water filtration pump, additional taps, computers and a new toilet suite in partnership with the University of the South Pacific. BSP Financial Group (Fiji) Pte Limited (BSP) funded the project at Burevanua District School.
It also provided sweat equity by staff who volunteered their time to work on site.
The technical support was provided by USP associate professor in Electrical and Electronics Engineering Utkal Mehta and USP volunteers, who provided technical expertise in designing, installing and optimising a sustainable solar power solution, ensuring reliable energy access for the school.
The enhanced solar power system now powers the entire school and benefits the wider community.
BSP’s area manager West & North, Viliame Varasikete, officially handed over the project and reaffirmed BSP’s commitment to community development.
“At BSP, we care about the communities we operate in,” Mr Varasikete said.
“Helping children’s education aligns with our shared values of aspiring for excellence and growth. We are proud that it will also benefit nearby communities who may now host events here that will support their development”.
USP’s associate Professor Mehta said the initiative was a testament to the impact of strong partnerships between academia and businesses.
“By integrating solar power into the school’s infrastructure, we are not only providing reliable electricity but also exposing students to renewable energy technology, fostering innovation and supporting global sustainability goals,” he said.
School head teacher Maika Vauseu conveyed the school’s gratitude for the project’s impact.
“This initiative is a game-changer for our students. They do not have electricity at home which limits learning to daylight hours.
“With solar-powered lights in the school the children, including the secondary school students living in the village, use the classrooms to complete assignments, study and do research on the internet.
“The solar system has excess capacity, which is also shared with the community, allowing them to charge their phones and hold village meetings at the school in the evenings.”
The addition of a separate toilet block for Early Childhood Education and Years 1 and 2 will enhance the safety and experience of our younger students.
We are deeply thankful to BSP and USP for making this possible,” Mr Vauseu said.
NOTE: This article was first published in the print edition of the Fiji Times dated MARCH 8, 2025.
