Strengthening public and private partnership is crucial in steering education in Fiji to new dimensions, says Ministry of Education permanent secretary Dr Brij Lal.
During the launch of the third ‘Access to Quality Education Programme’ stakeholders meeting this morning, Dr Lal emphasized to donor agencies and participants, the effectiveness of localising aid to benefit the Fiji situation.
“It is important that there is better understanding between the education sector and the donor agencies in order to mainstream and localize principles of aid effectiveness to benefit the Fiji situation,” he said.
“We believe that partnership is one of the crucial element that will steer education in Fiji to a new dimension.”
Dr Lal acknowledged the efforts of donor agencies in establishing operational frameworks that encompass stakeholders in eliminating duplication of efforts therefore making it cost effective.
“As key stakeholders we must take the leading role in reaffirming our commitment to improving the ability of children from poor communities, including those with disability, to access quality education,” Dr Lal said.
Access to Quality Education programme leader Dr Priscilla Puamau said their key priority is ensure that all children are able to attend school in a safe environment.
“Education has consistently been recognized as the cornerstone of development for any country or region, and one of the highest return development activities,” Mrs Puamau said.
AQEP programme will provide grants to improve school infrastructure and learning environments and education access and quality for the most disadvantaged and disabled primary schools in Fiji.
The organisation has assisted 28 per cent of urban schools, 18 per cent rural schools, 30 per cent remote schools and 24 percent to very remote areas.
The program is evident through $30million AusAid bilateral assistance to Fiji’s education sector programme from 2011-2016.
Collaborative efforts from various organizations and stakeholders are adamant in improving education access for children with disabilities and those from poor communities around Fiji.
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