The children whose pictures went viral on social media for travelling on a bilibili (bamboo raft) across a river to get to school in Nabuna, Lekutu in Bua were given life jackets by the Ministry of Education.
The children who, like many around the country travel on a bilibili to get to school were happy to wear their life jackets for the trip.
According to the Ministry of Education statement, the children have been using bilibili as a mode of transport as it is easy for them to paddle.
The Ministry through the statement also confirmed that a licensed provider will provide transport for the children through a free transportation government scheme with the use of the RSL transport voucher.
Each student received a life jacket donated by the Ministry.
Education Minister, Viliame Gavoka said the safety of the children was paramount, therefore it was the responsibility of the communities to work together with the head of schools and teachers to ensure that safety measures in place were strengthened to safeguard children.
He reminded everyone that as responsible citizens; they needed to enhance their partnership in education.
“Our children are our future, and we need to protect and ensure accessibility to quality education is promoted thus no child is left behind,” he said.
