Matevulu College has confirmed that maintenance work has been carried out on damaged dormitories and ablution blocks following public concern raised on social media this week.

The college, one of Vanuatu’s leading secondary institutions with more than 600 students, came under scrutiny after photos showing poor conditions of dormitories and toilets were widely shared online. The images prompted questions from the public about whether the facilities had been repaired before the start of the new academic year.

A source familiar with the situation confirmed to VBTC News that the photos circulating on Facebook were genuine and reflected the condition of the facilities at the end of last year. According to the source, the issues had existed for several years, with only minor maintenance carried out annually, which did not last long.

Matevulu College, Joseph Riri, clarified that the photos were taken last year and that repairs have since been completed.

“These photos were confirmed by the principal and the school administration to be from last year, and the ablution blocks and dormitories shown in the images have already been repaired through maintenance work.”

Mr. Riri also raised concerns about student behaviour contributing to the damage of school property.

“Students do not respect school properties. Parents also have a responsibility to teach their children proper behaviour before they come to school.”

He added that the School Council will work together with the Teaching Service Commission (TSC) and the Ministry of Education to address ongoing issues between the school administration and teachers, which he says is also affecting the overall situation at the school.

“I am asking the Ministry and the TSC to come and help resolve the issues between the administration and teachers, as these problems have contributed to the situation we see today.”

VBTC News also sought comments from the school principal, who said he is not ready to speak to the media.