LDS Church funds $447,686.74 for new classrooms and resources at fire-hit Nadi, Fiji, school

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church) has contributed over $447,000 to rebuild classrooms and provide educational resources at Andrews Primary School in Nadi following a fire in February. The donation includes four prefabricated container classrooms, an office unit, furniture, equipment, and teaching materials.

The new facilities were officially handed over by Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro, who praised the LDS Church for fully funding the project. The contribution will improve learning conditions for students and teachers, offering better spaces for education and instruction.

The four new classrooms will accommodate 157 students, including 40 in Year 3 and 117 in Year 6. Following the fire, the Ministry of Education provided temporary learning spaces until permanent solutions could be arranged. The LDS Church’s humanitarian team, led by Kevin Smith, played a key role in delivering the project.

Minister Radrodro emphasized the importance of collaboration between government, faith-based organizations, and communities in addressing school needs. He encouraged students to use the new facilities responsibly, stay focused on their studies, and avoid bullying and illegal drugs.

He also called on school management, teachers, parents, and the community to maintain the classrooms and resources. Proper care, he said, would ensure the facilities continue to benefit students in the years to come.

The handover represents a significant milestone in the school’s recovery from the fire, providing permanent learning spaces for affected students and enhancing the school’s ability to deliver education. Andrews Primary School, established in 1918, currently has an enrollment of 935 students.

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