Australian AID to Fiji under its Access to Quality Education Program (AQEP)

Reducing education barrier for Fiji children

Oct 20|12:27 pm

The education sector in Fiji has once again become the beneficiary of the Australian AID under its Access to Quality Education Program (AQEP).

The program, which started in mid- August this year, offers a package of bilateral assistance to the Fiji education sector from 2011 to 2016.

Education Minister Mr Filipe Bole said the program’s strategic objective was triple pronged with the intention to reduce financial barriers to access and participation in schooling, to improve school infrastructure for the purpose of improving learning and to conduct research over systemic challenges that hinder student learning outcomes.

The program succeeds the AusAID funded Fiji Education Sector Program from 2003 to 2013 and is managed by GRM International on behalf of AusAID.

GRM is a leading international development management company specialising in the provision of project design, management expertise and technical assistance to development projects for bilateral and multilateral funding agencies, Governments and corporations.

It has more than 38 years of development experience, managing in excess of 700 projects in more than 120 countries for private, Government, bilateral and multilateral clients.

The program’s team of consultants will work closely with the Ministry of Education, non-government organisations, faith based organisations and other development partners.

They are based at Quality House at Gorrie Street, Suva.

The Access to Quality Education Program will be launched at the Suva Business Centre tomorrow, October 21.

Tourism Industry is a lifeline to Air Pacific?

Air Pacific is lifeline to tourism industry

Oct 19|12:45 pm

The arrival of a new Boeing 737-800 aircraft signifies a milestone for Air Pacific’s move to change not just its image but to position itself in the 21st century as a modern aircraft national carrier, says the Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Civil Aviation Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.

“It must be recognised that Air Pacific is the lifeline to tourism in Fiji,” Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said.

“Thirty one per cent of Fiji’s Gross Domestic Product, if not more comes, from tourism. It is therefore imperative we ensure that all different facets within the tourism sector are working well.”

These facets include improvements in road, water supply, working terms and conditions of tourism industry staff and proper incentives for hotel operators.

Water salute

The acting Prime Minister also said the Bainimarama Government was extremely supportive of the changes that were taking place within Air Pacific.

“Government has a long term view, a vision of how Fiji needs to position itself,” Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said.

“We should not be positioning ourselves only for next year or the next five years. We should be looking at 10 to 20 years ahead.”

The increased or doubling frequency of flights between Australia and Fiji in January next year will be a means of job security and job creation because more people will be required to work on flights.

“By having a long term perspective of where we want to be, we will be able to plan ourselves better, provide a modern fleet of aircraft and offer not just good services but infrastructure as well,” Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said.

Air Pacific managing director and chief executive Mr Dave Pflieger said the addition of the new Boeing 737-800 to their fleet would increase services to Sydney by almost 50 per cent, to 13 flights per week.

“That means your long awaited requests for more convenient morning and afternoon departures to Fiji and morning and evening returns to Australia will become a reality in January,” Mr Pflieger said.

The new aircraft is named Mamanuca. The last aircraft for Air Pacific to purchase was in 2003.

Acting PM, Mr Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum disembarking after inspecting the interior of the Air Pacific's new Boeing 737-800

-End-

Air Pacific - Well Done but review other Airlines Flight into Fiji!

Fiji welcomes new additions to Air Pacific's fleet, expanded routes

Oct 20|09:26 am

Air Pacific has inaugurated the “Mamanuca Islands,” a Boeing B737-800—the first new plane in the carrier’s fleet in eight years, and the cornerstone of many developments to be taking place at the airline in the months ahead.

The new aircraft was greeted on Tuesday by a “water cannon salute” and more than 100 guests and family in the Air Pacific hanger at Nadi International Airport. Republic of Fiji officials, Air Pacific employees and their family, members of the tourism industry and others welcomed the plane for what promises to be a significant contribution to Fijian economy.

Air Pacific has in recent months been repositioning itself for the future, and the Mamanuca Islands, along with additional soon-to-be-delivered planes, will allow the airline to almost double the number of flights between Sydney, Australia and Fiji, from seven to 13. Australia presents one of the most important markets for Fiji’s tourism sector, which makes up more than 30 per cent of the country’s GDP.

The new schedule will result in more convenient morning and afternoon flights to Nadi, allowing visitors to make outer-island connections, as well as more morning and evening return flights to Sydney. “This allows us to better serve our customers and better compete for business,” said Air Pacific’s CEO Dave Pflieger in remarks before the crowd.

“At a time when other airlines are consolidating or closing, Air Pacific is reinvesting and taking smart steps to plan for, not just the years, but the decade ahead,” said Attorney-General and Minister for Aviation and Tourism, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum. “This plane represents more competition, job growth and a stronger Fijian economy.”

In his remarks following the inspection and blessing of the plane, Mr Sayed-Khaiyum outlined the importance of taking a holistic approach to promoting Fiji’s tourism sector and economy:

“Given that more than 30 per cent of our GDP comes from tourism, we need to ensure all facets of this industry are working properly and together—from the plane you fly in on, to the roads outside the airport that take you around Fiji, to the water that people drink, to the labor terms of the workers at the resorts, to the incentives we provide hotel operators. Everything must work together,” the minister said.

ELECTION 2014 - Fijians for Fiji

Fiji Day 2011 - Presidential Address to the Nation - H.E. the President, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau

Oct 10|13:30 pm

RATU EPELI NAILATIKAUCF, LVO, OBE (Mil), OStJ, CSM, MSD
President of the Republic of Fiji

FIJI DAY 2011 – PRESIDENTIAL ADDRESS TO THE NATION

Government House                                                                                                                                                                             
Monday 10 October, 2011

SUVA

-----------------------------------------

DEAR FELLOW CITIZENS

GOOD EVENING TO YOU ALL

NI SA BULA VINAKA

TODAY WE COMMEMORATE THE 41^ST ANNIVERSARY OF OUR INDEPENDENCE.

WHEN THE FIRST PRIME MINISTER OF FIJI, RATU SIR KAMISESE MARA, RECEIVED THE CONSTITUTIONAL INSTRUMENTS OF INDEPENDENCE ON THE 10^TH OCTOBER, 1970, HE MADE A SHORT ACCEPTANCE SPEECH.

THIS SIMPLE SENTENCE FROM THAT SPEECH IS WORTHY OF NOTE, QUOTE - “WE CONSIDER AND ACCEPT OUR DESTINY NOT JUST FOR OURSELVES BUT ALSO FOR EACH OTHER”, UNQUOTE. THOSE SIMPLE WORDS ARE POIGNANT TODAY AS THEY WERE THEN.

THE THEME FOR THIS YEAR’S ANNIVERSARY, “CELEBRATING FIJI, ONE NATION, ONE DESTINY” IS A FITTING REMINDER OF THE COMMITMENT THAT WE, THE PEOPLE OF FIJI, HAVE MADE TO EACH OTHER THROUGH THE PEOPLES CHARTER FOR CHANGE, PEACE AND PROGRESS, TO CHANGE OUR ATTITUDES, OUR THINKING, THE WAY WE LIVE AND THE WAY WE ARE GOVERNED IN ORDER TO ESTABLISH A SOLID FOUNDATION FOR OUR COUNTRY, AS ONE NATION AND ONE PEOPLE.

OUR CELEBRATION OF FIJI DAY IS A TESTIMONY OF OUR DETERMINATION TO REMEMBER OUR PAST EXPERIENCES, TO CELEBRATE OUR PRESENT ACHIEVEMENTS AND TO LOOK HOPEFULLY AND POSITIVELY TO THE FUTURE. NOTHING MUST DETER US FROM THE PATH TO CHANGE, PEACE, PROGRESS AND PROSPERITY.

WE NOW BETTER UNDERSTAND THE THINGS THAT MAKE US STRONGER AS A NATION.

ON THAT NOTE, I WISH TO COMMEND THE SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENTS OF THE LAST FOUR AND HALF YEARS TO YOU AS SIGNS OF GREATER THINGS TO COME FOR THE FUTURE OF OUR COUNTRY.

GOVERNMENT ALONE CANNOT RESOLVE ALL OUR CHALLENGES. WE MUST ALL CONTRIBUTE. ALL OF US MUST ACTIVELY ENGAGE WITH GOVERNMENT AND WITH EACH OTHER, IN A PARTNERSHIP.

GOVERNMENT HAS KEPT ITS PROMISE TO BUILD CONSENSUS ON THE PEOPLE’S CHARTER FOR CHANGE, PEACE AND PROGRESS.

GOVERNMENT HAS BEEN MANDATED TO CARRY OUT AND CONTINUE WITH THE REFORMS THAT BEGAN IN 2007 AND AS SPELLED OUT CLEARLY IN THE ROADMAP FOR DEMOCRACY AND SUSTAINABLE SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FOR 2012-2014.

THE MANDATE ALSO REQUIRED THAT GOVERNMENT MUST ENSURE THAT TRUE DEMOCRATIC, NON-COMMUNAL, EQUAL SUFFRAGE BASED ELECTIONS FOR PARLIAMENTARY REPRESENTATION IS HELD BY SEPTEMBER 2014.

THE GOVERNMENT HAS BEEN MANDATED TO TAKE THE COUNTRY FORWARD UNTIL SEPTEMBER 2014. IT IS EVIDENT THAT THERE IS A VERY CLEAR STATEMENT OF GOVERNMENT’S INTENTIONS, IDENTIFYING KEY MILESTONES TO BE ACHIEVED AND ENSURING CONTINUITY OF OUR COLLECTIVE VISION AS FORMULATED IN THE PEOPLE’S CHARTER FOR CHANGE,

PEACE AND PROGRESS AND MORE RECENTLY IN THE ROADMAP FOR DEMOCRACY AND SUSTAINABLE SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FOR 2012-2014.

THE STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK FOR CHANGE IS A DOCUMENT OUTLINING GOVERNMENT’S MAJOR INTENTIONS.

IT SETS OUT BROAD POLICY DIRECTIONS AND CHANGES TO THE SYSTEM OF GOVERNMENT, THE DEVELOPMENT OF FIJI’S ECONOMY AND THE CHANGES IN OUR SOCIAL AND CULTURAL FABRIC AS CITIZENS OF THIS NATION.

THE OVERALL OBJECTIVE OF GOVERNMENT’S VISION OF FIJI’S FUTURE AS CAPTURED IN THE BROAD OUTLINES OF THE STRATEGIC FRAMEWORK FOR CHANGE AND IN THE PEOPLE’S CHARTER REMAINS THE SAME AS THAT WHICH HAD BEEN STATED EARLIER IN 2007 AND ALSO IN 2008.

SINCE 2009, A NUMBER OF MEASURES INCLUDING REFORMS HAVE BEEN IMPLEMENTED TO GIVE REALITY TO THE VISIONARY AND PROGRESSIVE IDEAS OF THE PEOPLES CHARTER FOR CHANGE, PEACE AND PROGRESS AND OF THE MORE PRACTICAL ORIENTATION OF THE ROADMAP FOR ELECTIONS FOR PARLIAMENTARY REPRESENTATION AND SUSTAINABLE SOCIO-ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT FOR 2012-2014. THIS PERIOD WILL OFFER OPPORTUNITIES TO OUR PEOPLE TO CONTRIBUTE TO AND BE PART OF THOSE CHANGES.

GOVERNMENT HAS A VISION TO MAKE FIJI REALIZE ITS TRUE POTENTIAL THROUGH BUILDING A STRONG NATION STATE, BY EMPOWERING ALL OUR CITIZENS, BY ADDRESSING DECADES OF NEGLECTED INFRASTRUCTURE, BY PROVIDING ACTUAL ADHERENCE TO THE PRINCIPLES OF THE RULE OF LAW, BY PUTTING IN PLACE SUSTAINABLE INSTITUTIONS AND LAWS THAT WILL CREATE ACCOUNTABILITY, TRANSPARENCY, JUSTICE, FAIR PLAY AND MODERNITY; BY IMPROVING LIVING STANDARDS AND ALLEVIATING POVERTY; BY PUTTING IN PLACE A LIBERALIZED AND A LEVEL PLAYING FIELD ECONOMY. THIS PERIOD SHALL BE FOLLOWED BY THE FORMULATION OF A MODERN DAY CONSTITUTION AND THEN THE HOLDING OF ELECTIONS FOR PARLIAMENTARY REPRESENTATION BY SEPTEMBER 2014.

I WOULD NOW LIKE TO HIGHLIGHT SOME OF THE ACHIEVEMENTS.  LAST WEEK, TWO IMPORTANT EVENTS WERE CELEBRATED ON THE UN CALENDAR WORLD WIDE.

THE FIRST, THE UN’S INTERNATIONAL DAY OF NON-VIOLENCE. THIS IS THE GLOBAL OBSERVANCE THAT PROMOTES NON-VIOLENCE THROUGH EDUCATION AND PUBLIC AWARENESS. IT IS ANNUALLY HELD ON OCTOBER 2 TO COINCIDE WITH THE BIRTHDAY OF THE RENOWNED INDIAN LEADER MAHATMA GANDHI. THE UN RECOGNIZES A PHILOSOPHICAL CONNECTION BETWEEN THE HUMAN RIGHTS PRINCIPLES IN ITS UNIVERSAL DECLARATION AND THOSE THAT MAHATMA GANDHI USED.

GANDHI TAUGHT THE PEOPLE OF INDIA AND THE REST OF THE WORLD THE PHILOSOPHY OF AHIMSA, WHICH ENCOURAGES THE USE OF NON-VIOLENCE AS A TOOL FOR THE PEACEFUL RESOLUTION OF DIFFERENCES.  THE PEOPLES CHARTER FOR CHANGE, PEACE AND PROGRESS ESPOUSES, AS ONE OF ITS KEY STEPS, IN MOVING OUR NATION FORWARD - THE NEED FOR ALL OUR LEADERS IN ALL THE KEY INSTITUTIONS INCLUDING THOSE OF THE GOVERNMENT; OF THE TRADITIONAL STRUCTURES; OF THE RELIGIOUS AND THE YOUTH ORGANIZATIONS; OF THE CIVIL SOCIETY; AND OF THOSE IN THE PRIVATE SECTOR TO CHANGE, TO COMMIT TO WORKING TOGETHER, TO SEEK AND TO CREATE BROAD-BASED CONSENSUS FOR JUST AND FAIR SOLUTIONS.  FURTHERMORE, OUR LEADERS MUST LEAD BY EXAMPLE AND TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THEIR WORDS AND ACTIONS.

SECONDLY, THROUGHOUT THE WORLD IN UN MEMBER STATES, WORLD TEACHERS DAY IS CELEBRATED ANNUALLY ON OCTOBER 5.

THE WORLD TEACHERS DAY IS HELD TO CELEBRATE AND HEIGHTEN THE IMPORTANCE, THE FUNDAMENTAL ROLES AND THE SPECIAL STATUS OF TEACHERS AS AGENTS OF CHANGE IN PROVIDING QUALITY EDUCATION AT ALL LEVELS.

THIS WHOLE WEEK HAS BEEN DEDICATED TO CELEBRATING THE IMPORTANCE OF EDUCATION AND THE CRITICAL ROLE OF TEACHERS IN GUIDING CHILDREN, YOUTHS AND ADULTS THROUGH THE LIFE-LONG LEARNING PROCESS.

THIS YEAR, WORLD TEACHERS DAY FOCUSED ON THE THEME; QUOTE: “TEACHERS FOR GENDER EQUALITY”. UNQUOTE.

IT IS CRITICAL TO SEEK MECHANISMS THAT PROTECT THE TEACHING PROFESSION. IT IS ALSO CRUCIAL TO ENSURE THAT INVESTMENT IN TEACHERS IS SUFFICIENT AND PROPORTIONATE TO THE DEMANDS MADE UPON THEM.

IT IS THE TEACHING FRATERNITY WITH ITS KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE AND FORESIGHT WHICH CAN BRING NEW INSIGHTS TO GLOBAL SOLUTIONS.  SUSTAINED INVESTMENT IS REQUIRED TO DEVELOP A WELL-TRAINED AND MOTIVATED TEACHING FRATERNITY.

IN OUR RAPIDLY CHANGING AND INTERDEPENDENT WORLD, TEACHERS NOT ONLY HAVE TO ENSURE THAT STUDENTS ACQUIRE SOLID SKILLS IN BASIC SUBJECTS, BUT ALSO THAT THEY BECOME RESPONSIBLE LOCAL AND GLOBAL CITIZENS, AT EASE WITH NEW TECHNOLOGIES AND ABLE TO MAKE INFORMED DECISIONS ABOUT HEALTH, THE ENVIRONMENT AND THE CHALLENGING THEME OF GENDER EQUALITY.

TEACHERS PLAY AN ESSENTIAL ROLE IN PROVIDING QUALITY EDUCATION AT ALL LEVELS AND IN PREPARING OUR CHILDREN AND YOUTH TO BUILD A NEW SOCIETY AS ENVISAGED IN THE PEOPLES CHARTER FOR CHANGE, PEACE AND PROGRESS.

AS FAR AS EDUCATION IS CONCERNED, THE PEOPLES CHARTER CLEARLY ARTICULATES OUR COLLECTIVE VISION. WE ASPIRE FOR FIJI TO BE AN EDUCATED, KNOWLEDGE-BASED SOCIETY WHERE ALL OUR PEOPLE HAVE ACCESS TO EDUCATION AND CONTINUOUS LEARNING.

THE REFORM OF FIJI’S LAWS TO BRING THEM IN LINE WITH THE CONVENTION ON THE ELIMINATION OF ALL FORMS OF DISCRIMINATION AGAINST WOMEN AND THE CONVENTION ON THE RIGHTS OF THE CHILD, HAVE BROUGHT ABOUT WELCOME CHANGE.

WE ARE NOW EXPERIENCING INCREASING PARTICIPATION BY WOMEN IN DECISION MAKING BODIES, THEREBY EMPOWERING URBAN AND RURAL WOMEN, INCREASING THE ENROLMENT OF WOMEN AND GIRLS IN TERTIARY EDUCATION, ADOPTING POSITIVE GENDER MAINSTREAMING WITHIN THE GOVERNMENT SYSTEM, AND INCREASING THE WELFARE ASSISTANCE PROVISIONS TO THE MARGINALIZED, INCLUDING SINGLE MOTHERS.

FURTHERMORE, THE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE DECREE, WHICH CAME INTO EFFECT LAST YEAR, IS NOW BEING EFFECTIVELY IMPLEMENTED BY THE LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES IN CONJUNCTION WITH CIVIL SOCIETY GROUPS.

ITS REGIME OF RESTRAINING ORDERS IS INTENDED TO DETER PERPETRATORS OF FAMILY VIOLENCE FROM INFLICTING FURTHER VIOLENCE, WHILST ALLOWING FAMILIES TO REMAIN TOGETHER IN PEACE.

THIS DECREE RECOGNIZES THE DIFFICULTY EXPERIENCED BY WOMEN AND CHILDREN IN GAINING ACCESS TO THE JUSTICE SYSTEM, BECAUSE OF FAMILY, COMMUNITY, CULTURAL AND ATTITUDINAL BARRIERS.

A LANDMARK IN THE FIJI RESPONSE TO HIV AND AIDS TOOK PLACE IN FEBRUARY THIS YEAR IN THE PASSING OF THE HIV/AIDS DECREE.

THESE, TOGETHER WITH THE AMENDMENT PASSED IN AUGUST WERE POSITIVE STEPS TOWARDS DEALING EFFECTIVELY WITH THE PREVENTION, CARE AND TREATMENT OF HIV/AIDS. THE DECREE IS CONSISTENT WITH INTERNATIONAL HUMAN RIGHTS STANDARDS AND, IN PARTICULAR, THE INTERNATIONAL GUIDELINES AND UN DECLARATION OF COMMITMENT.

PROPERLY IMPLEMENTED, IT WILL HELP HEALTH WORKERS AND CIVIL SOCIETY TO TAKE AN INTELLIGENT APPROACH TO HIV PREVENTION AND CARE.  IT WILL ALSO HELP THE COUNTRY TO TAKE HEED OF THE PROBLEMS OF DISCRIMINATION AND STIGMATIZATION, WHICH HAVE SO FAR, IMPEDED SUCH AN APPROACH. THE AMENDMENTS TO THE DECREE THAT WERE MADE IN AUGUST WERE PRINCIPALLY AIMED AT ADDRESSING THESE PROBLEMS.

THE SETTING UP OF THE HIV/AIDS BOARD AND CONTINUOUS TRAINING ARE CRITICAL TO ENSURE THE EFFECTIVE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE DECREE.  THE DECREE PROVIDES AN ENABLING ENVIRONMENT FOR CHANGES IN SOCIAL AND PROFESSIONAL ATTITUDES.  IT IS A SIGNIFICANT AND ENLIGHTENED STEP TOWARDS AN EFFECTIVE HUMAN RIGHTS BASED APPROACH TO THE PREVENTION AND CARE OF THOSE WHO LIVE WITH HIV OR ARE AFFECTED BY HIV, IN THE COUNTRY.

THE HIV/AIDS DECREE HAS BEEN ACKNOWLEDGED AS ONE OF THE MOST ENLIGHTENED AND PROGRESSIVE HIV LAWS IN THE WORLD.

IN ADDITION TO THE HIV/AIDS DECREE, THIS YEAR THE COUNTRY PASSED THE MENTAL HEALTH DECREE, A DECREE BASED ON THE WORLD HEALTH ORGANIZATION (WHO) GUIDELINES ON BEST PRACTICE FOR MENTAL PATIENTS; AND THE CHILD WELFARE DECREE, WHICH CREATES A SYSTEM THAT REQUIRES MANDATORY REPORTING OF CHILD ABUSE BY DOCTORS, POLICE OFFICERS AND LAWYERS TO THE DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL WELFARE.

IN LINE WITH THE SPIRIT OF THE PEOPLE’S CHARTER FOR CHANGE, PEACE AND PROGRESS, GOVERNMENT IS COMMITTED TO THE TASK OF ENHANCING FIJI’S INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS, BOTH BILATERALLY AND MULTI-LATERALLY. THIS YEAR, THE PRIME MINISTER OPENED OUR NEW MISSIONS IN INDONESIA, SOUTH AFRICA AND TWO WEEKS AGO IN BRAZIL.  SUCH EXPANSION OF DIPLOMATIC RELATIONS IS ESSENTIAL FOR OUR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND IN MEETING OUR INTERNATIONAL OBLIGATIONS AND PARTICIPATION IN GLOBAL AFFAIRS.  PROGRAMMES AND ACTIVITIES UNDERTAKEN IN THE COUNTRY TO OBSERVE THE INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF THE YOUTH (AUGUST 2010–AUGUST 2011) WERE AIMED AT ENCOURAGING YOUNG PEOPLE TO DEDICATE THEMSELVES TO FOSTERING PROGRESS, INCLUDING THE ATTAINMENT OF THE UN MILLENNIUM DEVELOPMENT GOALS, WHICH SEEK TO SLASH A HOST OF SOCIAL ILLS, RANGING FROM EXTREME POVERTY AND HUNGER TO MATERNAL AND INFANT MORTALITY TO LACK OF ACCESS TO EDUCATION AND HEALTH CARE, ALL BY 2015.

UNDER THE THEME, “DIALOGUE AND MUTUAL UNDERSTANDING, SIGNIFICANT PROGRESS WAS MADE IN DIALOGUE AND UNDERSTANDING ACROSS GENERATIONS AND PROMOTING THE IDEALS OF PEACE, RESPECT FOR HUMAN RIGHTS AND FREEDOM, AND SOLIDARITY.

I INVITE EVERY ONE TO BE PART OF THIS NEW, EXCITING AND EXTRAORDINARY JOURNEY THAT WE HAVE EMBARKED UPON.

COME TOGETHER TO BUILD A BETTER FIJI FOR OURSELVES AND OUR CHILDREN AND FOR EVERY FUTURE GENERATION.

LET US BEGIN ANEW, CELEBRATING FIJI, ONE NATION, ONE DESTINY.

THANK YOU

VINAKA VAKALEVU

BAHOOT DHANYAVAAD

What Fijians in San Francisco did on Fiji Day Weekend

San Francisco commemorates Fiji Day

The Honorary Consul of Fiji in San Francisco commemorated Fiji Day celebrations in America on last Friday.

Leading the celebrations the Honorary Consul of Fiji in San Francisco Dr Narayan Raju accompanied by Fiji residents hoisted the Fijian flag.

In line with Fiji Day celebrations the chief of Protocol for San Francisco city and the governor’s office in Sacramento Charlotte Schultz declared a Fijian Heritage Day in San Francisco on every October 7 to honour Fiji’s independence.

Schultz highlighted the important contributions of Fijians living in San Francisco in the development of the city's diverse culture and the overall economic growth of the San Francisco Bay Area. 

Recalling the memories of her visit to Fiji, she said Fiji is the most beautiful country she had ever travelled to and plans to revisit the country.
By Nasik Swami

What the Old Capital did for the Fiji Day Weekend

Levuka marks Fiji Day

Ropate Valemei
Sunday, October 09, 2011

FIJI has come a long way since the signing of the Deed of Cession in 1874.

Those were the words by the Minister of Primary Industries and the acting Minister for Defence, Joketani Cokanasiga during the Fiji Day celebrations at Nasau Park in Levuka on Friday.

"We are now celebrating Fiji's 41st year of independence from Great Britain," Mr Cokanasiga said.

He said the theme 'Celebrating Fiji, One Nation, One Destiny' gives hope for the future.

"The theme encourages patriotism and building to promote our hope for the future," he said.

The minister told the crowd at Nasau Park that Fiji was built on sweat of farmers, the smile of receptionists or waiters at the local hotel, business in the country as well as civil servants and non-government organisations.

Mr Cokanasiga urged people of the old capital to support the bid for Levuka to achieve world heritage status.

The Fiji Day celebrations included dances and oratory contest from local schools in and around Ovalau and volleyball competition for youth groups.

Inmates from the Levuka Corrections Service also participated in the celebration, which began with a march through the street of Levuka Town by participating schools and supported by officers from various government departments.

What Labasa Town did for the Fiji Day Weekend

Bilibili race attracts crowd

Maneesha Karan
Sunday, October 09, 2011

IT was a spectacular sight for locals and tourists in Labasa Town to have witnessed the first ever traditional Fijian bilibili (bamboo raft) race at the Labasa River yesterday.

The race was part of the Queen Esther mini carnival hosted for the first time in Labasa and the festival's nine contestants headed each bilibili.

Festival committee president TJ Loloma said the bilibili race signified the cultural connection of the people back to the olden days.

"The bilibili was the common mode of transportation for our forefathers across rivers in the past," Mr Loloma said.

"We didn't have outboard engines in those days.

"This race event has proved that the concept of using bilibili is still successful and villagers in outer islands and people living near coastal areas can still make use of this mode of transport." Mr Loloma said at first the contestants were hesitant towards participating in the race. "It was a challenge for the contestants because nearly all of them had never sat on a bamboo raft before and this was the first experience for them.

"The contestants felt they ought to face this challenge because the event reflected the festival's theme 'A Better Fiji'."

People gathered around the Labasa market near the river bank and on the bridge to catch a glimpse of the race.

What they did for the Fiji Day Weekend ....

Tourists enjoy trip up north

Maneesha Karan
Sunday, October 09, 2011

Tony Ceravolo with his wife Sandra and children Tiana, 16, Joseph, 19, and Joyce, 22, in Labasa yesterday. Picture MANEESHA KARAN

WORD of mouth is believed to have attracted more tourists to take advantage of the Captain Cook Cruises tour to the Northern Division.

This was relayed by tourist Tony Ceravolo, who is on the cruise with his family of six. The family is from Adelaide in Australia.

This was his first visit to Fiji and to Labasa, and so far he has been intrigued with the friendly atmosphere and the warm climate.

"We got to know about Fiji through word of mouth from friends and we decided to escape for a family vacation to this tropical island," Mr Ceravolo said.

"We are overwhelmed with the friendliness of the people and the warm atmosphere. The weather is fantastic.

"The society is colourful because there are many different races and cultures integrated together. People here show a lot of affection which is difficult to get in other countries," he said.

A total of 51 passengers were on the cruise ship. This, cruise manager hotel and hospitality Florian Haber said, was lower then the previous cruise which had 64 passengers.

"The tourists are enjoying the relaxed atmosphere of the north," Mr Haber said.

"They are visiting the un-spoilt remote very friendly north, visiting the shops, enjoying the smell of fresh vegetables and fish at the local markets."

What did you do for the Fiji Day Weekend?

Jack's leads the way

Maciu Malo
Sunday, October 09, 2011

Jack's of Fiji employees sing the national anthem in Nadi yesterday. Picture: BALJEET SINGH

DRESSED in blue, more than 150 Jacks Handicraft staffs paraded in front of their shop in the main street of Nadi to sing the national anthem celebrating the 41 years of independence.

Training manager Altaab Khan said it was to show case their pride.

He said the company encountered many good and bad times during its 42 years of existence.

And against all odds more than 30 shops were operating country wide.

Mr Khan said the singing of the anthem was to commemorate and celebrate Fiji Day with the main idea of showing members of the public their loyalty to the country.

"We have been practising this song for the past few days and we wanted to show the people of how proud we feel for our beloved Fiji," he said.

"We are very proud for our country and we are happy to have continued the tradition that we have been doing it for the past years.

"This is to inspire the people of Nadi to have pride for the country and we also wanted to portray the bula spirit"

"This means a lot to us as we are operating in the hospitality business."

Mr Khan said the gathering was also used as a team bonding exercise for staff.

Thanks for the Breather - Ministry of Local Govt

Ministry offers rates amnesty

Timoci Vula
Sunday, October 09, 2011

ALL default ratepayers in municipalities around the country have been given a three-month amnesty period to allow them to reconcile outstanding records.

And the Ministry of Local Government, Urban Development, Housing and Environment also directed all municipal councils to allow a waiver of 100 per cent on all interests of rates on full payment of the principal amount.

An Information Ministry statement stated the amnesty period began in October 1 and would end on December 31.

The Ministry of Local Government states the rates amnesty period is designed to assist ratepayers upgrade their rate profile in councils' registry, and allow ratepayers that had fallen behind in their payments the opportunity to pay.

"The incentive for ratepayers to come forward is that all interest on principal amount shall be waived upon payment of overdue rates in within the specified period," the ministry stated.

"This rates amnesty program shall be a one-off exercise and no further discounts/amnesty on outstanding rates will be entertained by the Ministry of Local Government, Urban Development, Housing and Environment."

The ministry stated that all defaulters who paid their rates within the period would receive a full discount on all interest outstanding, they would not be taken to court, and they would not need to pay for any further legal costs arising through legal action.

It added that defaulters' property would not be subject to mortgagee sale, caveat placing or being a charge entered due to having rates in arrears, and they would not be registered on Credit Data Bureau.

WHO for FIJI

Fiji to be part of WHO regional meet

Monday, October 10, 2011

Fiji is among 37 other countries that will be represented today at the WHO Western Pacific regional meeting in Manila, Philippines.


Health Minister Dr Neil Sharma will be part of the 100 plus officials that will gather to discuss steps posed by a rapidly changing health environment.
On the agenda are discussions on policies and future directions on antimicrobial resistance, food safety, non-communicable diseases and traditional medicine.


Experts will also review progress reports on malaria control and elimination in the region, dengue prevention and control, mental health, health systems, human resources for health, essential medicines and the expanded programs on immunization.


Dr Sharma will be giving the WHO an update of Fiji's progress in these areas.

Report by : Elenoa Osborne

DO YOU REALLY KNOW OUR FIJI FLAG?

Public know little of Fiji flag history

Monday, October 10, 2011

The Fiji flag will be flying high today as the country remembers its 41 years of independence.


However big or small it may be - the flag is a symbol of independence and pride and represents Fiji's history.
However - there is little knowledge amongst the public about the history of the national flag.
FBC News caught up with a few people and asked what they understand about the flag and its history and while some were happy to divulge whatever little they know - some did not wish to go on record.


Here are the views of some:
“It’s part of our country - represents Fiji."
"I know that the Union jack we got from the English. On the shield - I know the banana is one of our main exports - so is the coconut. The dove is for peace and I don’t know the rest."
"The flag identifies Fiji."
"To my understanding - the Fiji flag is the national identity. All countries have their own flags. It's a symbol for Fiji - which we are proud to have."
"The flag represents our history."
"It's our national identity."


For flag co-designer Murray MacKenzie - the features consist of a combination of the things from the past that has made Fiji what it is today.
The shield - she says - was designed around 1906 - has coconuts - which drove the economy for a long time - bananas which used to be a great economic crop and sugar cane an all time important crop.
The dove represents peace, which was on Ratu Cakobau's flag before cession.
The Union Jack is from the United Kingdom - while the pale blue background of the flag represents the sea around Fiji.
Paying tribute to flag co-designer Robi Wilcock - Mackenzie says she remembers the moment the flag flew for the first time on October 10, 1970 - adding Fiji has come a long way.


"I was very glad when Fiji got independence and I think that we started off very well through the first years after we achieved independence. Of course things went a bit wrong in 1987 - but I think in Fiji we are pretty good at picking ourselves up and starting again and let’s home that we can keep on doing that."


41 years on - Fiji today celebrates the day it stood on its own - with a national holiday. FBC News visited families and this is what Fiji Day means to them.


"It means looking back 41 years and seeing how Fiji has progressed in terms of what government has done for Fiji and the people."
"It’s a time to be with the family and eat and have fun."
"Happy Fiji Day!"
"It’s a time for the family to get together and spend the day together and enjoy the holiday."
"I love Fiji."
"Its a time to spend with my family especially my grand children and just relax."
"Happy Fiji Day."


So – let’s take time today to reflect on the past years and how far we have come and make sure to fly the Fiji Flag.
The President Ratu Epeli Nailatikau will deliver his Fiji Day address from Government House at 7 this evening.

Report by : Elenoa Osborne

Well Done! - Mr. Nalin Patel

New factory boosts investment confidence

Oct 07|14:36 pm

The opening of the British American Tobacco (BAT)- Fiji’s newly upgraded primary factory is a boost in investment confidence, says the Attorney General, Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum.

While officially opening the upgraded factory at Nabua, the Attorney General said Government over the past three years or so had put in place a number of significant incentives and transparent processes which led to investor confidence.

“Today’s opening also indicates a partnership with Government where there is collaboration between agencies such as the Ministry of Health and BAT - Fiji,” Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said.

“I would like to commend BAT- Fiji for its willingness to work with the Ministry of Health, its willingness to comply with the various health standards that have been put in place to ensure that we achieve that balance.

“Cigarettes are products of choice and it is necessary to create awareness about the risks involved, however, one should keep in mind that there are livelihoods involved in the product industry.”

Highlighting the involvement of farmers from areas such as Nadroga and Nadi, the Minister for Industry & Trade said BAT - Fiji had a good partnership with the Department of Agriculture.

“BAT - Fiji has a good agricultural site in Nadi and initiatives such as farmers growing tobacco and growing other vegetables to provide for their livelihood at the same time is a good collaborative effort towards managing the risks that may be involved,” Mr Sayed-Khaiyum said.

BAT – Fiji chairman, Nalin Patel said the factory upgrade was a significant milestone for the company and reflected commitment and determination of BAT Group’s contribution to the Fijian economy along with the keen support of Government towards business excellence, growth and innovation in Fiji.

“BAT continues to contribute towards government’s revenue through the yearly payments of over $60million to Fiji Revenue and Customs Authority, which makes the company one of Fiji’s largest tax payers,” Mr Patel said. 

Well Done! - Brad Dougherty

Cloudbreak to host Volcom Fiji Pro surf comp

Saturday, October 08, 2011

Fiji will host it's first ever World Title Surfing event in June next year.

The Volcom Fiji Pro competition will feature 32 world-class surfers with one wild card from Fiji competing at Tavarua's Cloudbreak surf site.
Volcom's Vice President for Marketing, Brad Dougherty says the event will get worldwide media and fans more exposed to Fiji's waves and landscapes.


"With the technology of webcast and television feeds, we're able to present an event like this to many, many people around the world and there's obviously a very, very large economic impact immediately. the event will be broadcast to millions of people live via the internet for free, there will be TV shows, going out post the event to nearly 300 home throughout the world, not just showcasing surfing and not just Cloudbreak but Fiji and the Fijian people and the Fijian culture and why FIji is not just one of the best surfing destinations but also one of the best tourist destinations so we hope this event is going ot have a long lasting legacy. We're thankful to Volcom for sponsoring this great event, the support of the FIjian Government and the people of Fiji for allowing us to be here."

Dougherty adds they want to take the opportunity to put on a world-class event and co-brand Volcom with Fiji having been here for 21 years.

Report by : Eleina McDonald

Government’s commitment to develop the people of Fiji

Govt launches first community telecentre projects

Oct 07|19:08 pm

Prime Minister Commodore Voreqe Bainimarama launched Government’s first three community telecentre projects at the Suva Sangam College this morning.

The launch signifies Government’s commitment to develop the people of Fiji.

PM Bainimarama, PS for Communications, Ms Elizabeth Powell and Manager ITC, Mr Eliki Salusalu at the launching of the Government Community Telecentres at Suva Sangam College 

“The empowerment of Fijians through the use of Information Communication Technologies (ICT) and the advancement of Fiji as a knowledge-based society is a development priority for my Government,” Commodore Bainimarama said.

“Today’s launch is a proof of that commitment.”

Commodore Bainimarama said the new development ensured that all people had access to the digital world.

“These three telecentres and the others, that will follow foster my Government’s aim of connecting the unconnected, bridging the digital divide, connecting the rural and maritime zones with the urban and bridging the divide between the rich and the poor,” Commodore Bainimarama said.

A telecentre is a public place where people can access computers, the internet and other digital technologies that enable them to gather information, create, learn and communicate with others while they develop essential digital skills.

The simultaneous launch was made possible through the viewing of the launch over the web through skype by the two schools.

Meanwhile, Suva Sangam College, Rakiraki High School and Levuka Public School are the three schools that will house the new community telecentres.

‘Celebrating Fiji, One Nation, One Destiny’ gives hope for the future

Levuka marks Fiji Day

Oct 07|19:21 pm

Fiji has come a long way since the signing of the Deed of Cession in 1874.

That was the sentiment echoed by the Minister of Primary Industries and the acting Minister for Defence, Joketani Cokanasiga during the Fiji Day celebrations at Nasau Park on Levuka today.

“We are now celebrating Fiji’s 41st  year of independence from Great Britain,” Mr Cokanasiga said.

“The theme ‘Celebrating Fiji, One Nation, One Destiny’ gives hope for the future.

“The theme encourages patriotism and building to promote our hope for the future.”

Students of St James of Levuka march through the street of Levuka for Fiji Day celebrations

The minister told the crowd at Nasau Park that Fiji was built on sweat of farmers, the smile of receptionists or waiters at the local hotel, business in the country as well as civil servants and non- government organizations.

Mr Cokanasiga urged people of the old capital to support the bid for Levuka to achieve world heritage status.

The Fiji Day celebrations included dances and oratory contest from local schools in and around Ovalau and volleyball competition for youth groups.

Inmates from the Levuka Corrections Service also participated in the celebration, which began with a march through the street of Levuka Town by participating schools and supported by officers from various government departments.

Also noted was the many tourists who were enjoying themselves during the celebration.

“Despite our past difficulties, Fiji has continuously maintained its spot as the one of the most developed countries amongst our regional neighbors,” Mr Cokanasiga said.

“As a nation  Fiji, has shown a great degree of resilience over the 41 years because of the strong will of its people.”

These girls entertain the Levuka crowd during the Fiji Day celebrations

“Mahatma Gandhi shows us the power of one.”

Fiji transforms into Nation Under Common Citizenship

Oct 05|12:35 pm

Fiji is transforming into a nation of individuals that identify not with their race, ethnic group or social class but with their common humanity under a common citizenship.

Those were the sentiments of the Solicitor General, Christopher Pryde during Gandhi Day celebrations at the Mahatma Gandhi Memorial School yesterday.

“Mahatma Gandhi’s birthday, I understand, is on October 2. It is a chance for us to reflect on his life and his teachings and what his life means for us as individuals and also as citizens of Fiji,” Mr Pryde said.

“Mahatma Gandhi was a great man who inspired and persuaded not by the gun but by the word, in an age when empires were founded and maintained by military strength he managed to convince the British Empire, to quit India and give it independence.

“The fact that he achieved this, not through force of arms but by the force of his personality, his determination to right a wrong, and his steadfast belief that non-violence was the only way to achieve political change in India shows us the power of what one person can achieve if the will is there.

“Mahatma Gandhi shows us the power of one.”

The Solicitor General said Gandhi’s ideas had stretched around the world and across the generations to us here in Fiji.

Mr Pryde added the current generation needed to continue Gandhi’s dream of a world with a common humanity, a world, and a country that focused not on our differences but on  similarities.

“We need to believe in ourselves as individuals and ourselves as citizens in a country that believes in itself, not as a nation divided but as a nation united in a common humanity,” he said.

“If Gandhi could transform the British Empire by a belief in himself and his ideas, we too can transform ourselves and our country in the same way.”