Can Hindi Survive in Fiji’s Schools Amid Career Concerns?

A prominent academic from the Fiji National University, Dr. Subashni Kumar, has expressed serious concerns regarding the diminishing appeal of Hindi language studies among students, citing a lack of employment opportunities as a significant factor. During her participation at the National Manak Hindi Conference, she highlighted that fewer clear career pathways for Hindi graduates have emerged as a critical hurdle to maintaining the presence of the language in Fiji’s education system.

Dr. Kumar pointed out that as students approach Year 9 and are faced with subject selection, they often gravitate towards disciplines perceived to offer better job prospects. This trend has noticeably affected the enrolment figures in Hindi courses at FNU, where the number of students has plunged from former classes of 15-20 down to a mere three to five in recent years.

The decline does not stop at the tertiary level; it is compounded by decreasing numbers of students choosing Hindi as a subject in secondary schools. This drop directly impacts the future pool of students who might pursue Hindi at a higher education level.

Acknowledging the cultural significance of the Hindi language — its role in shaping identity, preserving history, and fostering connectivity across generations — Dr. Kumar commented on how modern societal pressures have shifted the focus of students away from such studies. She emphasized the need for educational bodies to reframe the perception of Hindi, presenting it not simply as a subject for academic scoring but as a vital link to cultural heritage and identity.

In her passionate plea, Kumar called upon parents, educators, and community leaders to collaborate in reigniting enthusiasm for studying Hindi, stressing that fostering a genuine appreciation for the language is crucial for ensuring that future generations continue to engage with it, regardless of the current employment landscape.

In light of these challenges, there is hope that a collective effort from various stakeholders can revive interest in Hindi, ensuring that this important cultural element remains alive and valued in Fiji.