PRIME Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has challenged students of Draiba Primary School to draw inspiration from the school’s remarkable history, saying its graduates have risen to the nation’s highest office and proving that greatness begins in the classroom.
Speaking while commissioning the school’s new multipurpose hall in Nasese last week, Mr Rabuka said Draiba Primary had a proud legacy of producing national leaders.
“Over the years, these classrooms have nurtured distinguished national leaders,” he said.
“Closer to our time, we acknowledge the late former president Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, former president Ratu Wiliame Katonivere, and former president Major General Jioji Konrote.”
Mr Rabuka said no other school in Fiji could claim to have produced three presidents.
“What other school in Fiji has produced three presidents of the nation?”
He urged students to view the school’s history as motivation to pursue their own ambitions.
“If you didn’t know this, I want you to keep it as an inspiration, all annual intakes of the school that they come in to know how far students coming to this school can go in their lives.”
He said the achievements of the school’s distinguished alumni demonstrated that success was built on values, education and perseverance.
“Their achievements remind every child that has gathered here today that greatness is not only determined by where you come from, but by the values you and your parents uphold, the education you and your teachers work for, and the determination that you yourself will carry throughout your life.”
The Prime Minister said the newly commissioned hall would do much more than provide additional infrastructure.
“It represents renewed opportunities for every student to learn, to develop, to lead, and to contribute meaningfully to Fiji’s future.”
He said the hall would benefit the school’s 704 students — 375 boys and 329 girls — by providing a safe and modern venue for a range of activities.
“This facility will provide you with a safe and vibrant space for assemblies, sporting activities, cultural programs, awareness campaigns, and a wide range of educational and community events throughout your years here.”
