Teachers returning to their home village and district are making a significant impact on rural education with the inauguration of the newly established Namuka Secondary School in Macuata. The school is staffed entirely by educators from the Namuka district, a strategy endorsed by principal Eroni Matatia, who believes this initiative enhances student discipline, reinforces cultural values, and equips teachers with a deeper understanding of the challenges their students and families face.
Matatia emphasizes the importance of keeping education closely intertwined with family, community, and church values. He notes that sending children away for their education often exposes them to social pressures that can hinder their academic development. “We understand the situation here in the village. When parents send their children to Labasa, they sometimes pick up behaviours not taught at home, and this affects their education,” Matatia explains. The proximity of the school allows for increased interaction between parents and teachers, particularly crucial in light of rising concerns about drug abuse among youth. This initiative aims to create a seamless transition from village life to the classroom and back, fostering a supportive environment for students.
The teachers’ experiences in urban schools are being utilized to enhance educational standards in rural Namuka, preparing students for their future opportunities. With the establishment of Namuka Secondary School, students can pursue their education while remaining under the care and guidance of their families and the broader community, creating a nurturing and secure environment for learning. This positive development is expected to yield long-term benefits for both students and the community as a whole.