KAILA - It was all smiles for Natabua High School at the government's decision on the continuation of the free bus fare scheme this year as it has been very beneficial for the students.
Speaking to NAT Post yesterday afternoon, teacher in charge of the bus fare scheme Seini Waqa said the bus fare scheme has enabled students to come to school and this has really improved the attendance.
‘'The scheme has enabled students to come to school, especially for those who come from poor backgrounds," said Mrs. Waqa.
She says that with the regular attendance of the students (who receive bus fare assistance), their school work was seen to be always complete and this was a very good sign.
‘'It has also helped the teachers; they have a lighter load since the students are always present and it enables them to keep up with the curriculum, thus teachers can give their time to weaker students (academic wise)," said Mrs.Waqa.
Beatrice Singh, a student who receives the bus fare assistance, says that having her fare being paid for allows her to save money which she can later use for school needs.
Students receiving this assistance produce tickets when boarding the bus and for Beatrice Singh this is convenient.
‘'It's convenient, I just get the ticket out and give it to the driver rather than counting my coins which takes up time," says the jovial fifth former.
About 170 students at Natabua High receive the bus fare assistance and they are very grateful to the government of the day for implementing an initiative as much.