Students of Viria District School in Naitasiri will now access better learning facilities after the commissioning of their new classrooms blocks today.
The new classroom block was destroyed during Tropical Cyclone Winston and was rehabilitated with a cost of $349,000 which took 7months to construct.
Minister for Education, Heritage and Arts Hon. Rosy Akbar urged parents, community leaders and teachers that they have role to play in ensuring their children have access to proper education.
“We all have a role to play in ensuring that we provide a conducive environment for children you’re your presence indicates the interest that you have your children. With initiatives provided by government like free education and free bus fare scheme, we expect parents to teach your children with morale values and look after their health and the well-being of your children.”
“It is also important that you teach your children of living a healthy lifestyle, this also includes ensuring they eat healthy food and ensuring they live in clean environment.”
Minister Akbar reminded teachers and parents of the ministry policy of corporal punishment within schools and also at home.
“For children to be corporally punished or abused will not be tolerated. A lot of teachers are losing jobs because they engage in some acts however I would like to remind you that children have their rights and as educators and parents find other means to discipline your children.”
“I urge you to report any form of corporal punishment or abuse to the relevant authorities and ensure that your children are safe.”
A total of 430 schools were destroyed during Tropical Cyclone Winston and Government with various stakeholders are working together to rebuild schools around the country.