For students and teachers in Drauniivi and Vatukaloko, new school facilities are creating more space and better opportunities to learn, teach and grow.
The Minister for Education,Honourable Aseri Masivou Radrodro has commissioned a new hall at Drauniivi Public School, recognised the completion of three special classrooms at Vatukaloko Secondary School and marked the groundbreaking of two new teachersβ quarters.
Speaking at the event, Honourable Radrodro commended the schools for their progress and acknowledged the support of the Fiji Water Foundation, the community and other partners.
Established in 1984, Drauniivi Public School now has 273 students from Years 1 to 8 and nine teachers. The school has recorded improvements in academic performance, literacy and numeracy, supported by e-learning tools and teacher support initiatives.
The new hall was supported by a $200,000 contribution from the Fiji Water Foundation, while $450,000 was provided towards classroom development and $188,000 towards the two teachersβ quarters.
The Ministry has also previously provided $250,000 towards three teachersβ quarters, $2,500 for the school library upgrade and literacy and numeracy training.
Hon. Radrodro said Government remained committed to investing in education, with $883.3 million allocated to the education sector under the 2026β2027 National Budget, including $708.3 million for the Ministry of Education.
He also reminded Year 8 students that their external examinations begin on 6 October and encouraged all Year 8, Year 12 and Year 13 students to prepare well, attend school regularly and seek support from their teachers.
βOur target is 97 percent, and I expect every student to work towards it. Give your best effort, prepare well and take your examinations seriously,β Hon. Radrodro said.
He also encouraged Year 8 students and parents to consider Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) as a pathway for students interested in practical and technical fields.
Reflecting on the historical significance of 16 September for the people of Vatukaloko, the Minister encouraged students to understand their communityβs history while recognising the opportunities education provides for future generations.
He also acknowledged teachers, parents, school leaders, community members and development partners for their continued support, stressing that education remains a shared responsibility.