For the past 80 years, students of Wairiki District School in Navakuru Village, Cakaudrove, have faced a heartbreaking challenge. Each day, they risk their safety just to get to school and back home.
During the flooding season, from November to April, crossing the river becomes a dangerous task. Heavy rains cause the river to rise quickly. Sometimes, students are forced to leave school before noon or stay late, hoping the rain will stop. When the river floods, they can’t cross at all. This means missing school for 2 to 3 days, waiting for the water to go down.
This struggle is more than just about missing classes. Students sit in classrooms, worried—“Will I be able to get home today?” Their minds are divided between lessons and the fear of being stranded. This stress affects their learning and their peace of mind.
For eight decades, this problem has been ignored. But it’s time for a change. The children of Navakuru Village deserve to study without fear. They deserve to go home safely after school.
We urge the relevant authorities to take action. Build a safe crossing. Give these students the chance to learn without worrying about their lives.
Please share this story. The more people who know, the faster it can reach those who can help. Let’s stand together for the students of Wairiki District School. Their future depends on it.
