SCHOOL CLOSURE FOR NORTHERN DIVISION, LAU AND LOMAIVITI DUE TO TROPICAL DEPRESSION TD09F
In light of the strong winds, heavy rain, and potential disruption due to Tropical Depression TD09F, the Minister for Education, Honourable Aseri Radrodro, in consultation with National Disaster Risk Management Office (NDRMO), advises that all schools in the Lau Group, Lomaiviti, and Vanua Levu will be closed tomorrow (Monday, February 24) for the safety of students and staff as the weather remains uncertain.
A Southeast wind flow currently prevails over Fiji. Tropical Depression TD09F is located about 350 km northeast of Cikobia or 440 km north-northeast of Vanuabalavu as of 3am today. This system is expected to gradually intensify as it tracks south towards Fiji and is forecast to enter Fiji waters later today.
This system may bring strong to near gale force winds and an active trough, which will affect parts of the country, especially from later today onwards.
The Minister for Education, urges all parents and guardians to take proactive measures to ensure that the safety of their children is paramount during this period of adverse weather condition.
Moreover, all schools outside the Lau Group, Lomaiviti, and Vanua Levu will remain open tomorrow (Monday, February 24) and Parental discretion must be exercised at all times. Heads of Schools must continue to liaise with their School Management Committees, District, and Divisional Officers for further updates.
All teachers are asked to remain vigilant and prioritise the safety of their students, colleagues, and families during this time. They should stay informed about the evolving weather conditions, and maintain communication with parents to ensure that students remain safe. Teachers must also stay in regular contact with their respective school heads, Management Committees, and Divisional Officers to receive updates and relay important information as needed.
The Ministry will keep all students, teachers, parents and guardians updated through press releases via mainstream media and the official page for the Ministry of Education and the Fiji Government.