THE Education Ministry plans to construct new secondary schools around the country after receiving expressions of interest from the vanua.
Education Minister Aseri Radrodro told Parliament earlier last month the ministry is conducting feasibility studies for these projects.
“The Ministry of Education is also looking to respond to the expression of interest from the vanua for the establishment of new secondary schools, subject to current Ministry of Education criteria,” Mr Radrodro said.
“We anticipate establishing new secondary schools in the West, in Namara in Yasawa, Vuniyasi and Nawaka in Nadi, Namuka in Naweni, Tokaimalo, Naqali, Tacirua and Nakorosule to name a few.”
The minister also confirmed the ministry was finalising an agreement with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Red Crescent Authority to construct duplex teachers’ quarters for Ratu Simione, Lautoka Methodist and Sigatoka Methodist colleges.
“We are in the final stage of signing this agreement with UAE authorities, aiming for completion by the end of December.
“With God’s grace, phase two of this vital project will then begin, further advancing the people’s Coalition Government’s vision.”
Mr Radrodro said the ministry was also scoping and re-tendering the Kadavu Provincial School project, “which was left incomplete in 2022 due to contractual and monitoring issues”.
He said a total of $8.7million has been allocated in the 2025–2026 budget to address repairs and maintenance, rebuild teachers’ quarters, and improve infrastructure across schools nationwide.
