All schools will be closed today

All schools across Fiji will be closed today, as heavy rain and flooding continue to affect parts of the country.

Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro has announced the nationwide closure following consultations with the National Disaster Risk Management Office and after receiving situation reports from District Education Offices.

The decision was made to ensure the safety and well-being of students, teachers and wider school communities as adverse weather conditions persist.

The Minister says assessments conducted at district level highlighted concerns over access to schools, rising water levels and potential safety risks posed by flooded roads and crossings.

Heads of Schools and teachers are advised to remain in close contact with their respective School Management Committees and District Education Offices to receive further updates and guidance during the closure period.

Radrodro says they have also been reminded to ensure that school premises are properly secured.

Radrodro is also urging parents and guardians are being urged to keep children at home and to avoid unnecessary travel.

He stressed that no one should attempt to cross flooded roads, creeks or rivers, and children should not swim in rivers or flood-affected areas.