The 17 students of Naitasiri Secondary School who were involved in a horrific accident at Navuniyasi Village Saumakia Junction in Naitasiri on Monday morning, have been provided counselling.
The Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro says in response to the incident, the Ministry has initiated an emergency protocol to assist the affected families and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
He says their officials are assessing the circumstances surrounding the accident to enhance the safety measures within our schools and during school-related activities.
Radrodro urges all stakeholders on the importance of safety awareness and vigilance in school-related events and also encourages parents, guardians, teachers and students to remain informed and proactive in prioritising safety to prevent future incidents.
He adds this unfortunate event serves as a reminder of the fragility of life and the strength of our community.
He further adds that they stand together in support of our students, their families, and all those affected by this incident.
The Minister says the students were provided with lunch by the school at the Vunidawa Hospital Conference Room, and Psycho-social Support (PSS) provided by Substance Abuse Advisory Council (SAAC) Counsellors at the same venue before the students were released by the Head of School and teachers were also present at the hospital to provide moral support.
Radrodro says the second session of Psycho-social Support was provided by Substance Abuse Advisory Council Counsellors on Tuesday for the affected students at Nakorosule Village Community Hall.
He says at this point in time, no information can be released on the details about the probable cause of the accident, as police officers are still conducting investigations.
He further says Compassionate Pass for the students will be activated following the necessary reports and recommendations from the Sub Divisional Medical Officer (SDMO) Naitasiri and the Head of School (HoS).
The Minister adds that based on the Police and medical report, the Head of School will assist the affected students, parents and guardians to fill and lodge claims with the Accident Compensation Commission Fiji (ACCF) accordingly.
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