Some 100 students trek along two kilometres and wade through waters to and from Muaira District School in Naitaisiri, twice a week.
While most of us complain about the city traffic in rush hour and if we’re going to make it in time for school or work, take a moment to reflect of the challenge faced by students in the interior of Naitasiri.
The picture tells it all.
Amidst the urban luxuries of buses and cars transporting our fortunate children, more than a hundred young minds in the heartland of Naitasiri endure a weekly struggle through rain, hail, and sunshine, crossing treacherous rivers just to reach their classrooms.
And these students, along with their teachers and parents have one common plea to authorities and donors: Build us a bridge.
The things urban students and residents take for granted are the finer things in life for these rural students.
And some 100 students trek along two kilometres and wade through waters to get to and from school twice a week.
Most of the students at Muaira District School are boarders, which eases the burden of travelling.
But when they do travel to and from school once a week, it can be a life-threatening experience, especially when the weather is unfavourable.
Jope Lalaga Seru, the dedicated head teacher of Muaira District School in Lutu Village, Wainimala, Naitasiri, bears witness to this plight.
He says that a bridge spanning the gap at Botenaulu and Waibasaga villages is an intervention that could redefine safety for his students.
This challenge, he says, is not new and hopes to see the protection and well-being of these budding scholars.
According to a UN paper, if infrastructure is developed in regions that lack facilities and face resource crunch, these regions may manage to exploit the new production possibilities, and this will help reduce inequality.
The now postponed Naitasiri Provincial Council meeting at the month end holds the promise of this transformation.
“Imagine students from Waibasaga waiting for waters to subside before they can journey onward. Such a precarious voyage is a risk we refuse to tolerate,” he added.
Additionally, parents Etuate Boseiwaqa and Akosita Rokomate also plead with authorities to act swiftly.
RANOBA BAOA
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