Bridging Diversity: Holi Celebration Unites Two Schools for the First Time

In a landmark event promoting inclusivity, Ghandi Bhawan Primary School partnered with Lautoka Special School for Education (LSSE) to celebrate Holi together for the first time on Friday. This collaboration between a mainstream institution and a special school exemplifies the significance of unity and diversity within the community.

Kailash Pillay, head of LSSE, expressed his excitement regarding this collaboration. He shared that in his eight years at LSSE, this was the first outreach he had seen from a mainstream school. Pillay remarked, “We are indeed privileged and happy that a mainstream school has really thought about a special school, bringing their students and their singing talents.”

Nilesh Sharma, head of Ghandi Bhawan Primary School, echoed his sentiments, noting that the school’s 620 students and staff were eager to engage in the Holi festivities. He acknowledged the crucial role played by parents and the Ministry of Education in facilitating this initiative, stating, “We wanted to create a pathway when students complete their studies from LSSE. We welcome them and want our students to understand that inclusiveness and diversity are important.”

Holi, celebrated widely in Fiji, embodies joy, unity, and positivity. The festival serves to bridge cultural divides, much like past gatherings at venues such as DAV Girls College, which have highlighted the collaborative spirit of the occasion. Teachers and community leaders often emphasize that Holi transcends mere celebration, representing an enriching cultural experience that deepens bonds and fosters understanding among diverse groups.

This inclusive celebration at LSSE marks a promising advancement towards embracing acceptance and cooperation among various communities in Fiji. The partnership between Ghandi Bhawan Primary School and LSSE establishes a commendable precedent for future collaborations aimed at enhancing both educational and cultural inclusivity. The hope is that such unity will continue to grow, creating a vibrant future rooted in understanding and shared experiences.