Minister travels to the garden of the Pacific

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School students of Christ the King Primary School in Sumi, Rotuma were in high spirits as the Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro, visited the school. Picture: JONA KONATACI

Rotuma, situated 589km away from Fiji is known for its pristine natural beauty, sandy shores and clear sea.

The island has four primary schools and one secondary school that provides education to students of Rotuma.

The schools on the island are Malha’a Primary School, Paptea Primary School, Motusa District School, Christ the King Primary School and Rotuma High School.

This month the Education Minister, Aseri Radrodro, the Education permanent secretary, Selina Kuruleca and the Australian Deputy High Commissioner, Clair McNamara visited the island.

Not only did the officials meet with teachers and students on the island, according to a Government statement, they had the opportunity to distribute textbooks and assorted stationery to the schools.

During the visit, Mr Radrodro praised the teachers at Rotuma for their dedication.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank you, teachers for your continued effort and commitment to the call of duty given to you by the Ministry of Education,” he said.

“I know you must miss life on Fiji, but your dedication to staying here and diligently performing your duties is commendable. Your role is truly a noble profession.”

Mr Radrodro while speaking to teachers and students also highlighted the importance of students’ learning abilities and the vital contribution of teachers and parents to the children’s education.

“The nurturing of children is not solely the responsibility of teachers; it is also the responsibility of parents and guardians. As they say, it takes a whole community or village to raise a child.

“The presence of parents in all the schools we visited shows the commitment that everyone has to the children.

“I hope this will mark the beginning of many visits to Rotuma to ensure that we address the needs of the school, the management, and the teachers here.

“We aim to improve the school facilities and infrastructure so that current and future students will be better prepared to become better citizens of Fiji.”

The special visit concluded with a talanoa session with all the teachers from the five schools at Malha’a District School.

The officials had travelled to Rotuma on board the Royal Australian Air Force C-27 Spartan aircraft.