Students of Vanuabalavu and nearby islands need not come to Suva for Form Seven education.
The Minister of Education, Mr Filipe Bole approved the upgrading of Adi Maopa Secondary School into Form Seven in 2012.
The minister made the announcement to students, teachers, school committee and parents, who gathered at the secondary school, to welcome the minister and his party on Wednesday last week.
“It is my pleasure to announce to you today that Adi Maopa Secondary School will begin Form Seven education next year,” Mr Bole said.
“This is to assist students who seek Form Seven education not to go right to Suva, but can have it here in Vanuabalavu closer to their parents and only leave the island to attend university education.”
Speaking to secondary school students, Mr Bole said, “The upgrading of Adi Maopa to Form Seven ensures students enjoy the same privileges students in Suva and other urban schools access scholarships.”
While speaking to teachers, the minister said: “All teachers who are teaching in secondary schools are expected to improve their qualifications. Those holding diplomas need to get degrees and postgraduate degrees. The impact will benefit the students”.
Ministry of Education permanent secretary, Dr Brij Lal said, teachers should take the initiative of studying through DFL courses offered by the universities.
“Adi Maopa is a centre for USP (University of the South Pacific) in the islands for sitting examinations; it is an indication teachers can pursue DFL courses.”
Mr Bole was impressed with the school examination results in recent years.
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