After a few days of school closure due to water disruptions caused by heavy rainfall that damaged the main water pipes, schools in the Suva and Lami area are open today.
Acting Permanent Secretary Timoci Bure says they are reopening schools because water supply in the affected areas have been restored.
WAF is commended for working tirelessly around the clock to repair the broken pipes.
He says they appreciate the patience and cooperation of their stakeholders, including parents, guardians, students, and staff during this challenging period.
Bure says their understanding and support have been invaluable as they worked to resolve the water supply issue and prepare for the safe reopening of schools.
He says as schools resume normal activities, the Ministry assures parents and guardians that they are actively addressing the lost teaching and learning time.
Bure says they are dedicated to ensuring that students receive the support they need as they return to their usual classroom routines.
The Ministry of Education emphasises that students' safety, hygiene and welfare are their top priority and they ensure that safety measures are in place to safeguard their well-being as they return to school.
To ensure children bring safe drinking water to school, parents and guardians are advised to provide children with water bottles filled with filtered, boiled, or purified water.
Additionally, all heads of schools need to advocate for access to clean drinking water in schools.
Bure adds they will persist in closely monitoring the situation and offering continuous support to schools and communities as needed.
