Students at Ratu Kadavulevu School have every reason to celebrate this week. The school has reached a milestone, celebrating 100 years of existence, and today, three refurbished dormitories were officially commissioned by the Minister for Education, Hon. Aseri Radrodro.
Today was a special day at the school as we celebrated Lodoni Day. It was also a proud moment as 720 students graduated from the school’s cadet program. The day also saw the commissioning of the school’s new Cadet Corp colour and the Centennial flag.
In his address to the guests, including old scholars, current students, parents, and supporters of the school, Hon. Radrodro expressed deep honor in being present for the commissioning of the refurbished three new dormitories, Ma’afu, Cakau, and Degei, at Ratu Kadavulevu School.
The Minister also extends deep appreciation to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for their generous support and dedication to improving educational facilities in Fiji. The Church of Jesus Christ funded the refurbishment of the Bure Ma’afu and Bure Cakau Dormitory while Government funded the Bure Degei Dormitory.
“The successful completion of the dormitory blocks was made possible through the dedicated efforts of numerous individuals and organizations. We extend our heartfelt appreciation to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints for their generous contribution of 1.11 million dollars towards this project,” said Hon Radrodro.
The project spanned 14 calendar weeks and concluded on September 10, 2024, meeting the Education Policy requirements for hostel buildings to adhere to all building health regulations.
“Education remains a priority of the coalition government because we need to invest in our children through education. In our modern era, we want economic growth, we want technological growth, and much more.”
“Ultimately, we want and need quality education for our children to become successful citizens of our nation and have a better standard of living. Quality education includes resources, teachers, classrooms, ablution blocks, labs, libraries, and playgrounds and this coalition government is committed to providing these resources to ensure quality and inclusive education.”
“Today's commissioning of the newly refurbished three dormitories and three dormitory blocks celebrates collaboration and commitment to children's education and well-being,” said Hon Radrodro.
Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints Elder Taniela Wakolo, in handing over the two dormitories, encouraged the students to strive to be their best and to never forget whose strong shoulders they are standing on. He advised them to be in the world but not of the world, to climb the ladder, keep climbing, and never look down on others.
“No matter whether you focus on academics or vocational training, I encourage you to do your best. Strive to be a good, law-abiding citizen and embrace the role of a lifelong learner. Take the time to learn as many skills as you can.”
“Show the world your talents and work on enhancing them. It's important to remember to strengthen your families, just as the cadets reminded us today when they sang "Noqu Matavuvale." Let's aim to make a positive difference in the world, one step at a time,” Elder Wakolo encouraged.
“Today, I have the privilege and honor of representing the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on this occasion of handing over two renovated and furnished dormitories, Cakau and Ma’afu.”
The project initially aimed to address bathroom repairs in the Bure Cakau’s dormitory following a request from a mother who's a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints whose son was attending RKS.
Upon further assessment, it became clear that major renovations were required for both Ma'afu and the Cakau dormitories as Government was focused on rebuilding the two dormitories destroyed by fire. The church contributed a little over 1.2 million dollars to renovate the two remaining dormitories, ensuring critical improvements in safety, hygiene, and comfort.
Government provided technical expertise and managed the project, ensuring smooth progress and quality control. Jens Construction and Magnum Construction were the contractors and delivered excellent work in executing the renovations.
“The Ministry of Education, particularly the Assets Management Unit, the Permanent Secretary, and the Ministry of Education played a pivotal role in the project's success. The Ministry of Infrastructure also collaborated closely with technical experts overseeing the project. The renovation has been stipulated and shared in detail by the Honorable Minister for Education, which also includes the purchase and installation of 140 new double bunk beds,” said Elder Wakolo.
Meanwhile, the Vunivalu of Bau and Turaga na Tui Kaba Ratu Epenisa Seru Cakobau while officiating at the opening of Lodoni Day said the name Kadavulevu is revered in Bau and they closely follow the progress of the school.
“It is our humble request and we pray that you protect the name of the school because the name Kadavulevu belongs to all of us,” said the Vunivalu.
He also extends the deepest appreciation for being considered to open the Lodoni Day and to be present in the Centennial celebration at the school.