[Source: Supplied]

The Kavanagasau Sanatan Dharm School proudly celebrated the grand opening of its Early Childhood Education (ECE) Playcentre, a significant development in fostering quality education in the Nadroga Navosa Education District. The state-of-the-art facility was made possible through the generous $26,000 donation by the Tappoo Group of Companies and will serve as a hub for early learning and play for children from Kavanagasau and surrounding communities.

The event saw speeches from esteemed individuals, including Mr. Jitendra Kumar, Head of School, who warmly welcomed guests and expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Tappoo Group. Mr. Kumar highlighted the vital role the Playcentre will play in nurturing the next generation, emphasizing that education is not confined to classrooms but extends to spaces that inspire creativity and exploration.

The Playcentre is a tribute to the late Mr. Tappoo Kanji, a pioneer student of the school and an instrumental figure in the Tappoo family’s legacy. During the ceremony, Mr. Kanti Tappoo, Chairman of the Tappoo Group, shared an emotional account of his family’s deep ties to the school, dating back to his father’s enrollment in 1933. He remarked, “This Playcentre is not just a donation—it is a symbol of our family’s attachment to this community and a testament to the importance of early education.”

The Tappoo Group’s commitment to the school extends beyond this latest project. Last year, the company donated IT equipment worth $12,500, contributing to the development of the school’s computer lab. This year, they aimed to enhance the learning environment for the youngest students, further cementing their ongoing support for the rural school.

Ms. Janice Nath, Education Officer for Nadroga Navosa, echoed this sentiment, praising the Tappoo Group for their shared vision of nurturing lifelong learners. She noted, “The Playcentre will not only benefit the children of Kavanagasau but also reflect the Ministry of Education’s commitment to fostering innovation and quality education. Early childhood education is the foundation upon which future learning is built, and this facility will provide a conducive and student-friendly environment.”

The Kavanagasau Kindergarten ECE Playcentre is poised to play a transformative role in the lives of its young students, giving them the opportunity to grow socially, emotionally, and physically in a nurturing space. With the support of the Tappoo Group, the school management committee, and the Ministry of Education, the Playcentre will become a cornerstone of community education.

The event concluded with the unveiling of a commemorative plaque, symbolizing the collaborative effort behind this achievement and the community’s shared dedication to providing the best possible start for its children.