Former scholars of Ratu Kadavulevu School and the school’s parents, guardians, and teachers association have initiated a fire appeal to support 147 students who lost their belongings in a recent dormitory fire.
The RKS Old Scholars Association (RKSOSA) and the RKS Parents and Guardians Teachers Association (RKS PGTA) launched the week-long appeal in Suva last Friday, seeking donations in cash and kind to help the affected students.
The students, most of whom have been sent home, require assistance in acquiring new boarding kits, including bedding, which amounts to approximately $2,000 per student.
RKSOSA president Alipate Naiorosui appealed to the public for generosity and compassion, pointing out the significant impact their donations could have on the students’ recovery process.
“We are calling on the members of the public to join us in helping these students rebuild their lives. Your donation can make a significant difference in their recovery process,” Naiorosui said.
In addition to bedding, the students also need uniforms, clothing, toiletries, stationery, and other essential items that were lost in the fire.
Donations can be made by depositing cash to the RKS PGTA account at Westpac Bank, with the reference “RKS Fire Appeal” and the narration indicating the name of the donating organisation, individual, group, or business.
Bank: Westpac
Account Name: RKS PGTA
Account Number: 9806186301
Reference: RKS Fire Appeal
Narration: Your Organisation/Individual/Group/Business etc Name
MPAISA: 936-8610 (Amele Guivalu – Treasurer/PGTA)
Alternatively, in-kind donations can be dropped off at Lodoni House on Herbert Place, off Knolly Street, Suva.
According to RKS PGTA President Ilaitia Tamata Jnr, affected students have been provided with counseling, and arrangements are being made to ensure that those who have been sent home can continue their studies during this period.
The fire, which occurred while students were having lunch in the dining hall on June 13, caused severe damage to the top floor and partial damage to the bottom floor of the Bure Sukuna dormitory.
The fire appeal concludes this Friday, June 23.
Meanwhile, Acting Permanent Secretary for Education Timoci Bure in an update over the weekend said that the Ministry of Education has secured a 145-bed facility for affected students and made arrangements for necessary supplies.
Students will not return to school until Monday, June 26, allowing parents and guardians ample time to replenish their child’s hostel kit. Bure also assured parents and guardians that the ministry is working diligently to ensure a smooth and efficient recovery process for RKS.
