44 schools affected and 11 schools severely affected by termites, 2 schools in Lautoka learning under tents

Termite infestation in the Western Division continues to be a worry for the Ministry of Education, with 44 schools affected and 11 schools severely affected.

This was highlighted by Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro in his response to the 2025/2026 National Budget, saying they are currently being confronted with termite infestation in the Western schools, and are thankful for UNICEF for providing temporary tents for classroom use.

He says currently, two schools are learning under tents, which are St Thomas Primary and Lovu Sangam Primary.

Radrodro says many of our school buildings are ageing, with the wear and tear impacting the safety and quality of the learning environment.

He says they have withstood challenging weather in the past, and this year's allocation of $8.7 million will greatly address repairs and maintenance, rebuilding of teachers' quarters and infrastructure around Fiji.

The Minister adds they also acknowledge the report by DFAT on the audit taken in the Suva Nausori corridors, which highlights classroom overcrowding and the need for more appropriate WASH facilities to be constructed around 45 schools in the Suva Nausori corridor.

Radrodro says preliminary work is already underway for the construction of three new schools, Vatuwaqa Primary School, Suva Primary School, and the new Davuilevu Secondary School, with funding from DFAT. He acknowledges their strong partnership with the UAE Red Crescent Authority, who continue to assist them with the construction of two duplex teachers' quarters at Ratu Simione Matanitobua College, Lautoka Methodist College, and Sigatoka Methodist College.

Radrodro says they are re-scoping and re-tendering the Kadavu Provincial School project, which has been left incomplete since 2022 due to contractual and monitoring issues.

He adds the Ministry of Education is also looking to respond to the expression of interest from the Vanuas for the establishment of new secondary schools, subject to current Ministry of Education procedures.

The Minister says they anticipate establishing new secondary schools in the West, including Namara, Yasawa, Vuniasi, and Nawaka in Nadi, Namuka in Kalokolevu, Naqali, Tacirua, and Nakorosule in Naitasiri.