SUVA, Fiji (17 June 2025): The Land Transport Authority (LTA) today officially launched the National Schools Road Safety Competition and the School Road Safety Club initiative, aimed at fostering a culture of road safety among students in Fiji.
Held at St Joseph the Worker Primary School in Nakasi, the event brought together students and teachers from various schools in Nakasi and Nausori, players from the Fijiana 7s and Under-20 rugby teams, representatives from major sponsor CJ Patel & Co. Ltd and Accident Compensation Commission Fiji (ACCF) as well as LTA staff and stakeholders.
LTA Chief Executive Officer Irimaia Rokosawa says the initiative reflects the Authority’s long-term commitment to shaping responsible road users by engaging young people early in their lives.
“Our roads are used by all—drivers, pedestrians, and passengers—and it’s vital that we start instilling safe habits from a young age,” he said.
“This competition and club initiative will give students a voice and a platform to lead change within their schools, homes, and communities.
“The National Schools Road Safety Competition encourages primary and secondary students across Fiji to express their understanding of road safety through creative activities, such as designing posters, videos including Tiktok videos, inspiring them to think critically and propose solutions.”
The CEO said the club promoted road safety and responsible behaviour among students through interactive learning, encouraging them to be ambassadors and strengthening ties with schools, parents, and authorities.
“Education doesn’t end in the classroom—it extends to how our children act in their communities. Road safety is a life skill, and these initiatives will help our students become responsible citizens and advocates for safer communities.
“Every child can be a champion for road safety, inspiring others to make safer choices,” Mr Rokosawa said.
LTA Manager Road Safety Education Watilala Fonu said the initiative was a vital step toward embedding lifelong safety habits in children.
“This is more than just a school activity—it’s about shaping values and behaviour that will last a lifetime,” she said.
“When students understand the risks and responsibilities on our roads, they become proactive in making safe choices, both as pedestrians and future drivers.”
She highlighted the importance of school-community collaboration in reinforcing the message at home and in everyday settings.
“We want students to take what they learn in these clubs and competitions and influence their families, friends, and neighbourhoods about the importance of adhering to road safety measures. That ripple effect can save lives,” Ms Fonu said.
Ministry of Education - Education Advisor Central Division Alivia Ketewai said each year, far too many lives were lost or impacted by road accidents, many of which could have been prevented by simply following basic safety rules.
“Road safety is not just about traffic signals and signs, it's about awareness, responsibilities and care for one another.
“That is why involving schools is such a powerful step. When young people learn the value of road safety early, it becomes a lifelong habit. More than that, you become role models, not just for your friends, but for your families and communities too,” she said.
The major sponsor for this initiative, CJ Patel & Co. Ltd, distributed Fun Flavour refreshments, Weet-Bix, and Weet-Bix Bites to the students.
Players from the Fijiana 7s and U20 rugby teams shared motivational messages with the students, reinforcing the importance of discipline, responsibility, and teamwork—values that aligned closely with road safety.
The competition, which started today, will end on 18th August 2025 and is divided into five categories:
Category 1:
Kindergarten – Year 2
Art type – Poster
Theme: “My parents, My guide on the road” – Class work
Category 2:
Year 3-5 Art type - Poster
Theme – “Safe Crossing Saves Life”
Category 3:
Year 6-8
Art type - Video (2-3 mins)
Theme: “Buckle Up – It Could Save Your Life”.
Category 4:
Year 9-10
Art type – Poster
Theme – “Obey the Rules, Avoid the Regrets”
Category 5:
Year 11-13
Art type - Tik-Tok video
Theme – “One Life, One Chance- Drive Safe”.
