Prime Minister Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka today (18-11-25) officially commissioned the new playground for Vunayasi District School in Dratabu, Nadi, marking an important milestone for the 309 students, 12 teachers, and the wider community.
Established in 1935, Vunayasi District School has long stood as a pillar of education in the district. The new playground represents a further investment in the school’s legacy, providing a dedicated recreational space that supports learning, physical activity, and community wellbeing.
Funded through the Office of the Prime Minister, at a total cost of $48,790, the project responds to the school’s request for a safe sporting and recreational facility. The development will also benefit the Dratabu Kindergarten, Dratabu Rugby Union, Dratabu Netball teams, and other community groups who now have access to a proper training ground.
The Prime Minister acknowledged the generous support of the landowning units—Mataqali Nadala, Mataqali Ilovaravara, and Mataqali Werelevu—whose contributions of leased land made the project possible.
In his remarks, Hon. Rabuka emphasized that the initiative aligns with the Government’s focus on people-centred development and Fiji’s National Development Plan.
“Community-level projects such as this have direct, meaningful impacts on families by improving access to safe and inclusive learning environments,” he said.
The playground also supports Fiji’s progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals by promoting health, wellbeing, equality, and community cohesion.
“The new playground will provide a safe space for children to build confidence, discipline, teamwork, and resilience—qualities that have helped produce some of Fiji’s top athletes, who hail from the area,” he added. A former national representative in rugby union and athletics himself, PM Rabuka specifically named rugby greats of Dratabu that included the namesakes Samisoni Viriviri and Kitione Taliga.
At the occasion, Hon. Rabuka acknowledged the traditional ceremony that was accorded upon his arrival. The event concluded with a “meke” traditional dance from students of Vunayasi Primary School and “talanoa” session between the Prime Minister and villagers of Dratabu.
The Prime Minister reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to supporting schools and communities nationwide, ensuring every Fijian child has the tools and opportunities they need to succeed.
