This Monday, June 2, still in shock, the teachers of the Field Fayard college are on strike, but the students will be welcomed. The rectorate set up a listening unit for students and staff, after the fire of part of the establishment on the night of Friday May 30 to Saturday May 31, during urban violence in Saint-André.
This Monday, June 2, the teachers of the Field Fay College are on strike and gather at 7:30 am in front of the establishment to denounce acts of violence. They call on parents to join them. The middle school students will be welcomed in the establishment.
Part of the college Field Fayard was set on fire, on the night of Friday May 30 to Saturday May 31, while urban violence took place throughout the district.
The school life premises and the CPE office were completely destroyed by the flames. Three or four classrooms have also been impacted. Throughout the weekend, the principal and the educational team worked to allow the opening of the college this morning.
“The damage is importantnoted on Saturday, the rector of the Reunion Academy, Rostane Mehdi who went there. School life will have to move to other premises of the college until the work is carried out. There is also an indirect impact on classrooms “.
This Rectorate is setting up this listening cell on Monday on Monday. “The staff and students who will need them will be accompanied, heard and listened to”, said the rector of the academy.
What happened is extremely serious is an attack on school, a place of knowledge, a place to build citizenship, a place of sharing. Bringing together school is to infringe the Republic.
Rostane Mehdi, the rector of Reunion
Students, teachers, staff : all are in shock. The night of the fire, the college reception agent was present on site. This lady alerted the principal that individuals had entered the establishment’s grounds and that she felt smoke.
“With an AED (Education Assistant), we entered the college to security the reception agent, tells Patricia Sakot, the principal of the Field Fay college. We then found that the flames invaded school life, we took the fire extinguishers, but there were explosions of windows. It was very dangerous so we waited for firefighters who were selected in the neighborhood and caught in stone jets “.
The firefighters were finally able to intervene in college at night to put out the fire, but the damage remains considerable.
Cyrille Melchior, president of the department, announced on Saturday that a “Company was mandated to make a complete diagnosis which will be followed quickly from a work schedule”.
In addition, security agents were set up during the weekend to monitor the college.
Aftermath of Field Fayard College Fire: An Expert’s Perspective on Community Healing and School Safety
Time.news sits down with Dr. Anya Sharma, a specialist in educational crisis management, to discuss the recent fire at Field Fayard College in Saint-André, Réunion Island, and its impact on the community.
Time.news Editor: Dr. Sharma, thank you for joining us. The recent fire at Field Fayard College is deeply concerning. can you provide some context on the situation?
Dr. Anya Sharma: Certainly. Collège Field Fayard experienced a fire on the night of May 30-31,2025,amidst urban unrest in Saint-André.The fire severely damaged the school life premises, the CPE office, and several classrooms. Understandably, this has left students, teachers, and staff in shock. The teachers are currently on strike, highlighting their distress and need for reassurance, yet the school has reopened to welcome students [[2]].
Time.news Editor: The article mentions the establishment of a “listening unit” by the rectorate. What is the significance of such a unit in this type of crisis?
dr. Anya Sharma: A listening unit is a crucial element in the immediate aftermath of a traumatic event like this. It provides a safe space for students and staff to process their emotions,share their experiences,and receive psychological support. It acknowledges the emotional toll and signals that the administration prioritizes the well-being of its community members. Given the trauma experienced from both the fire and the surrounding urban violence, this unit is an essential resource.
Time.news Editor: The Rector of the Reunion Academy,Rostane Mehdi,described the incident as an “attack on school.” Why is this a significant statement?
Dr. Anya Sharma: It’s a powerful statement as it frames the fire not just as property damage, but as an assault on the very foundation of education and community. Schools are symbols of knowledge, citizenship, and shared values. When a school is targeted, it undermines these principles and can have a lasting impact on the community’s sense of security and hope. Addressing this sentiment is key to recovery.
Time.news Editor: Principal Patricia Sakot and an Education Assistant faced considerable danger when attempting to secure the premises and protect the reception agent. What does this reveal about the staff’s commitment?
Dr. anya Sharma: it speaks volumes about their dedication and courage. Their immediate response, even amidst the danger of explosions and stone throwing, demonstrates a deep commitment to the safety and well-being of their students and colleagues. Such acts of bravery frequently enough serve as a source of inspiration and resilience for the entire community. These individuals require support and recognition for their actions.
Time.news Editor: What role do local authorities play in addressing the crisis and ensuring the safety of educational institutions in the future?
dr.Anya Sharma: local authorities have a multi-faceted role. Firstly, they must conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire and hold those responsible accountable. Secondly, they must provide funding and resources for the immediate repairs and long-term restoration of the school. According to the article, a company has already been mandated to make a complete diagnosis of the damage [[2]]. they need to collaborate with school officials and community leaders to enhance security measures and prevent future incidents, which includes installing security agents as mentioned in the provided text [[2]].
Time.news Editor: What advice can you provide to parents and students returning to Collège Field Fayard?
Dr. Anya Sharma: For parents,it’s crucial to listen to your children,acknowledge their anxieties,and reassure them that their safety is a priority. Maintain open communication with the school and participate in any support initiatives offered. For students, remember that it’s okay to feel scared, sad, or angry. Talk to trusted adults,utilize the listening unit,and focus on rebuilding a sense of community with your classmates. Seek professional help if needed; it’s a sign of strength, not weakness.
Time.news Editor: What are the long-term steps that can be taken to rebuild confidence and promote healing within the community?
Dr. Anya Sharma: Long-term recovery requires a holistic approach. It begins with restoring the school environment to be safe and welcoming. This could involve creating memorial spaces, engaging students in the rebuilding process, and implementing programs that promote positive relationships and conflict resolution. Regular mental health screenings and support services should be readily available. Strengthening community bonds through events and initiatives are essential.
Time.news Editor: Dr. Sharma, thank you for your valuable insights. Your perspective is invaluable as the community of Saint-andré begins the healing process after the Field Fayard College fire incident.
