Nakasi High School head boy Savenaca Valesu has called on parents, school managers, teachers, communities and the Government to continue working together to ensure every child in Fiji has the opportunity to succeed.
Addressing delegates at the School Management Association of Fiji’s 11th National conference in Suva on Monday, the student leader praised the voluntary efforts of school management committees, saying their services were helping shape the nation’s future.
“Your commitment and voluntary service continue to strengthen the foundation upon which Fiji’s future is being built,” Valesu said.
“Your work embodies the spirit of partnership and resilience.
“It reminds us that education flourishes when schools, communities, parents and government work together as one family.”
He said the conference theme highlighted the need for stronger governance, partnership and resilience to achieve sustainable education.
“Good governance means making decisions with integrity and wisdom. It means ensuring that schools remain places of learning, inclusion and opportunities.
“Strong partnerships mean recognising that education is a shared responsibility. And resilience means having the courage to persevere in the face of challenges.”
Valesu also challenged students to play their part by honouring the sacrifices made by those before them.
“We must honour the sacrifices of those who came before us by being disciplined, respectful and committed to our studies.
“We must care for our schools, support one another and use education not only to improve our own lives but also to serve our communities and our country.”
Looking ahead, he said young people would face growing challenges, including climate change, rapid technological change, social pressures and economic uncertainty, but remained optimistic about Fiji’s future.
“As young people, we are ready to embrace the future. We are ready to innovate, lead and contribute positively to our nation.
“But we ask for your continued guidance, support and investment in education so that no child is left behind.
“Let us continue to strengthen governance so that our schools remain accountable and visionary.”
