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A survey of primary school libraries in Fiji found that unsuitable facilities, lack of library training, and inadequate collections make it difficult for staff to provide adequate library services. The situation is worse in rural schools than in urban ones, and most respondents expressed the need for more material support and training.
Introduction: Schools In Fiji
Fiji has several types of schools: committee-run schools, religious schools, government schools, and private schools. Of the 709 primary schools in the country, 695 are managed by committees (Fiji Times, December 24, 1997). Committee schools may be set up by a religious group. For example, there are many schools run by particular Hindu groups or sects. Christian denominations such as Methodist, Roman Catholic, Anglican, Seventh Day Adventist, and Assemblies of God churches also have schools throughout the country. As well, schools organized and managed by Muslim communities are found in many parts of the two major islands. In some parts of the country, one finds community schools that are not affiliated with any religious groups. There are also a few schools that are financed by and completely under government control, and there are a few private schools. The largest of these is the International School in Suva. Although schools are managed by religious groups or committees, they are interracial, intersocial, and interreligious by law. There are no set school boundaries to which parents must adhere; thus parents have the right to send their children to any school they wish.
In government-run schools, the government is responsible for providing buildings and for funding the upkeep of the schools. All schools, with the exception of the International Schools, receive a subsidy of $30.00 per student per year, which is used to purchase materials and resources for classrooms. Any other money that is required by the schools must be raised by the schools. Schools can apply for aid from the Ministry of Education to build new classrooms, toilet blocks, a bus shelter, or canteen, or for improving the school compound. An application form must be completed, but that in itself does not mean aid will be forthcoming. In any given year, there may be a considerable number of applicants, and school committees may find their applications have not been approved.
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