Rotary Club of Taveuni Collaborates with NZ Dentists for Free Dental Clinic in Schools

FIJI: The Rotary Club of Taveuni has embarked on a charitable initiative to enhance dental health among students by organising free dental clinics in schools across the island. In a collaborative effort, dentists from New Zealand have joined forces with the club to provide essential dental services to primary school students in the region.

Volunteer Efforts for Dental Care

The Rotary Club’s executive member, Paul Purvis, shared that a team of dedicated dentists from New Zealand volunteered to work alongside the club in delivering dental care to students. The program has been extended to primary schools at Lavena, Bouma, Qeleni, and Naselesele, targeting a wide range of students for comprehensive oral health assessments and treatments.

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Acknowledging time constraints, Purvis noted that the program, spanning two weeks, will not be able to cover schools in the southern and central areas of the island this year. However, he assured that these areas would be included in next year’s program to ensure comprehensive coverage.

Addressing Dental Issues

The catalyst for this vital program emerged from the observation of a high prevalence of dental issues among students. The Rotary Club, motivated by the need for improved dental health among the youth, initiated discussions with the New Zealand dental team. The team of professionals voluntarily offered their services and covered their own expenses to travel to Taveuni for this meaningful endeavour.

Purvis emphasised the positive impact of the program, as not only students but also parents and villagers have actively participated in the dental clinics. This collective engagement has led to a sense of community involvement, demonstrating the shared commitment to better oral health.

“We are happy that students and parents including villagers also made good use of the free dental treatment,” he said.

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Proactive Approach to Dental Health

As the dental program in Taveuni schools draws to a close this week, the collaboration between the Rotary Club of Taveuni and the New Zealand dentists stands as a shining example of proactive community-driven efforts to address dental health challenges among students. The commitment of the dentists and the enthusiastic participation of the local community underscore the importance of collective action in promoting oral health and well-being among the youth.