TWO schools in Shortlands in the Western Province have been forced to suspend classes indefinitely due to food shortage.
The affected schools are Nila Parish Don Bosco operated by the Dominican Sisters of the Roman Catholic Church and Tuha Junior Secondary School.
Reports reaching Solomon Star last week indicated that both institutions have been grappling with food shortages for several months.
The situation has been exacerbated by poor shipping services and the schools’ remote locations, which pose significant logistical challenges.
As of August 28, students have been sent back to their homes.
In an interview Solomon Star, a member of the Dominican Sisters at the Nila Parish highlighted the dire situation.
She explained that the prolonged food shortage has led to the indefinite suspension of classes.
“The food shortage has significantly impacted our students’ academic performance and overall wellbeing,” the nun said.
They will only resume classes once the school has sufficient food supplies, she added.
The nun attributed the food crisis to inadequate shipping services to the Shortlands.
A student from Nila Don Bosco said during the food shortage situation, they were forced to eat dry coconuts and swamp taro which resulted in some of them falling ill.
“There were cases of some students getting sick from the food we consumed,” the student added.
Despite repeated appeals from local chiefs, leaders and businessmen for improvement to shipping services to the Shortlands, no substantial action has been taken to address the situation.
Residents of Shortland Island frequently face long waits for vessels to deliver essential supplies, a situation that continues to affect rural communities residing along the Solomon Islands-Papua New Guinea maritime border.
By ULUTAH GINA
Solomon Star, Gizo
