Learning outcomes are looking brighter for the 396 students of Narere Primary School in Nasinu, after the opening of their newly refurbished classrooms and facilities on Wednesday 16 April.
The $135,000 refurbishment is part of Australian Government support to Fiji’s education sector through the Access to Quality Education Program (AQEP).
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Acting Australian High Commissioner Glenn Miles said education is a pillar of Australia’s aid program and that quality education is every child’s right, contributing to economic growth and the well-being of society.
“We hope that students will feel happier in their new and improved classrooms, and we trust they will be motivated to attend school regularly and work hard at their studies,” Mr Miles said.
“This also means that teachers will enjoy improved working facilities that will undoubtedly translate to better learning outcomes for students.”
Ministry of Education representatives also participated in the handover ceremony.
Upgrades include the renovation of eight classrooms, renovations to the boys’ and girls’ ablution blocks, provision of an Early Childhood Education room, and renovations to the head teacher’s office and school canteen. Wheelchair access ramps have been constructed and new desks, chairs, IT equipment and learning materials purchased. The school also received social protection assistance in the form of school uniforms and bags.
“The ramps have enabled better access and mobility at the school for wheelchair-bound teacher, Ms Ofa Vola, a remedial teacher currently relieving for a teacher colleague away on maternity leave,” said AQEP Team Leader Dr Priscilla Puamau.
Working closely with the Ministry of Education, school authorities, management committees and education stakeholders, AQEP works to improve the ability of students from poor communities to enrol and stay in school.
PRESS RELEASE