27 Oct 2017

Schooling affected by Solomons eruption

1:02 pm on 27 October 2017

Hundreds of school children in communities affected by ash from a volcano in Solomon Islands could miss out on their end of year exams next week if relief supplies do not reach them in time.

Tinakula volcano

Tinakula volcano Photo: Supplied/ Lata Met Office Mr Luke Lapoe

The Tinakula volcano in the country's easternmost Temotu Province erupted over the weekend spewing ash over nearby islands covering crops and contaminating water supplies.

The National Disaster Management Office is struggling to get together enough water and relief supplies to send to the island which are at least a day's boat journey from the capital Honiara.

A no-fly zone is also hampering relief efforts and no attempt has yet been made to do an aerial survey of the volcano.

Matthew Matoko, a teacher on Fenualoa island which has been affected by the ash in the Reef Islands group, said the eruption had affected schools.

"On Fenualoa alone there are two main schools and that of course would affect schooling if water is not available to students. Exams are due next week for primary students and also secondary students as well."

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