Minister for Education Hon. Dr Mahendra Reddy yesterday received $423, 000 worth of assistance from the United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) to assist in government’s efforts in ensuring that students around the country return to normalcy.
The assistance which includes tents, hygiene kits, school in a box kits and water containers amongst other things will ensure that students education are not hindered as the nation rebuilds itself. Minister Reddy said the Fijian Government was grateful for the assistance of UNICEF and the international community in its assistance during the country’s time of need.
“Government continues to work closely with donor agencies and the international community to return the country to normalcy and the arrival of the consignment today is greatly appreciated and we would like to thank UNICEF on behalf of the Fijian government and the Fijian people,” Minister Reddy said.
“This is a tremendous response on their part in being able to put together and transport the relief supplies to Fiji within a week.” The consignment was transported by Emirates Airways from Copenhagen, Denmark via Dubai and Brisbane.
The consignment includes tents, water containers, mosquito nets, antibiotics, Oral Rehydration Sachets (ORS), hygiene kits, school in a box kits, recreational kits, and 7, 481 tarpaulins.
“We are truly appreciative of the assistance and hope that we will be able to put these equipment to good use in the areas such as the islands where nothing has been spared,” Minister Reddy said.
Assistant Minister for Health and Medical Services Hon. Veena Bhatnagar was also present at the arrival of the relief items.