Matevulu College, once one of Vanuatu’s leading secondary schools, is now facing serious health and safety concerns. Exposed electrical wiring, mold, deteriorating facilities, and unsafe boarding conditions place students at risk.

We are calling on national and provincial authorities to urgently inspect, report, and implement a clear action plan to restore safe learning conditions.

To:

The Ministry of Education and Training, Republic of Vanuatu

The Ministry of Health, Republic of Vanuatu

The Sanma Provincial Education Office (including the Provincial Education Officer and Finance Office)

The Board of Governors, Matevulu College

We, the undersigned alumni, parents, and concerned citizens, respectfully call for immediate intervention regarding the deteriorating and unsafe conditions at Matevulu College in Luganville, Santo.

Matevulu College has historically been regarded as one of the leading secondary schools in Vanuatu. For decades, it has shaped students who have gone on to become leaders across government, business, healthcare, education, and community development. The school has been a pillar of opportunity and discipline for generations.

However, recent evidence reveals that the current condition of the school presents serious health and safety risks to students currently enrolled.

Key Concerns:

• Exposed and unsafe electrical wiring

• Severe mold and moisture damage

• Unsanitary and unhygienic bathroom facilities

• Deteriorating boarding infrastructure

• General structural neglect

• Safety risks associated with unauthorised occupation of school premises

These conditions fall below acceptable public health standards and basic building safety requirements expected of government-funded educational institutions.

Governance, Oversight and Accountability

Educational institutions have a legal and moral obligation to provide a safe learning environment. Government-funded schools must ensure that infrastructure and facilities meet minimum health, safety, and building standards.

Where public funding has been allocated for school operations, maintenance, and infrastructure, transparency and accountability must be upheld at all administrative levels, including provincial education authorities and school governance bodies.

The current state of the facilities raises serious concerns regarding oversight, maintenance planning, and effective management of allocated resources.

Our Call to Action:

An immediate independent inspection of Matevulu College facilities by relevant authorities.

A public report outlining findings and required remedial actions.

A clear, time-bound action plan to address all identified health and safety hazards.

A review of governance and oversight responsibilities at school and provincial levels.

Transparent communication with alumni, parents, and the wider community regarding corrective measures and funding allocations.

Our Goal

Our immediate goal is to reach 1,000 signatures to demonstrate unified alumni and community support for urgent intervention.

Matevulu College has shaped generations of leaders. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that current and future students are provided with a safe, dignified, and healthy learning environment.

We urge the relevant ministries, provincial authorities, and governing bodies to take immediate and decisive action.

Signed,

Alumni, Parents, and Concerned Citizens

Matevulu Alumni Safety Initiative.