A school teacher in the Nausori Highlands is raising serious concerns over the safety of students who face dangerous road and flooding conditions when travelling to and from school.
Joseph Davui Tuidamudamu, a teacher at Ratu Nalewavada Public School, says the school currently has 125 students from Tubenasolo, Bukuya, Natawa, Navilawa and Navunitawa.
He says many parents in the highlands struggle daily to send their children to school due to poor road conditions and the long distances they must travel.
According to him, the situation worsens during heavy rain when roads used by students become flooded.
Tuidamudamu explains that the situation in the highlands is unique as even when it is sunny in Natawa village, rainwater from the higher elevations flows down and floods the area where children usually cross after school.
Natawa village is located close to a river, increasing the risk to students and some of had to go home by horse.
He says it should not take an accident or serious incident before authorities act.
The teacher stresses that residents of the highlands are also voters whose voices and needs deserve attention.
While acknowledging the recent visit by the Fiji Roads Authority and the Land Transport Authority to inspect the road conditions, he says more action is needed.
He believes decision-makers should personally walk the area to fully understand the severity of the flooding problem.
The road used by students was constructed after the Vaturu Dam was built, but it is now in poor condition.
The bridge in Natawa village has remained damaged since Cyclone Winston struck Fiji in 2016, further worsening access and safety.
Tuidamudamu says parents are increasingly worried about their children’s safety, with some even considering moving closer to the school to avoid the daily risks.
Insert: Joseph Davui 15th Feb 26
He is calling on relevant authorities to prioritise repairs and improvements to ensure the safety and well-being of students in the Nausori Highlands.
