School managements, in particular those that offer vocational courses, have been encouraged to start looking at income generating projects for their schools.
Ministry of Education permanent secretary, Dr Brij Lal made this comment at the opening of the second Education Forum for the year in Suva today.
Dr Lal said school managements, teachers, parents, students and other stakeholders in the sector should think outside the best in attaining the best for the future leaders of the country.
“Some of the income generating projects that schools can indulge in are furniture making, sewing of school or sports uniforms, vegetable supplies, poultry, fish farms, forestry and beekeeping,” Dr Lal said.
He said that the assistance of vocational students in schools could also be sought for repair and carpentry works.
“I was in Taveuni recently and I looked at the vocational students of Bucalevu Secondary School who were making the quarters for Tutu Training Centre. It is a very good incentive where students get hands on skills training.
“At the same time they are able to get a little bit of pocket money. I also saw the same at Savarekareka in Savusavu where the students have done a classroom. This is very encouraging,” Dr Lal added.
The permanent secretary also highlighted the promotion of art, drama and music in schools which could also be used to entertain tourists as well as locals.
“I have seen some schools in the Eastern Division and Cakaudrove that carry out entertainment programs for tourism and it’s a good way to earn some dollars and some resources for the schools.”
Dr Lal also urged school managements to maintain proper documents or acquittals and expenditures.
These forums are designed to allow education officials and other relevant stakeholders to meet and look at ways of improving educational processes, reforms, challenges and propose recommendations.
The third and final Education Forum for the year will be held in October, 2013.
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