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Illustration of The history behind St Anne’s

Celebrating 120 Years of Empowering Fijian Women: The Legacy of St. Anne’s School

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Understanding the rich history of Suva’s prominent educational institutions enhances our appreciation of how early religious organizations recognized the significance of quality education in achieving spiritual enlightenment. This week, The Sunday Times team highlighted Saint Anne’s Primary School, an all-girls institution with a remarkable 120-year legacy of shaping empowered Fijian women.

Established by the Sisters of Saint Joseph of Cluny in 1888, following a request from the Bishop of Suva, Julian Vidal, the school began humbly with just 15 students. Initially operating from a converted house in Toorak, it soon outgrew its original premises. In 1890, three cottages on Pratt St were acquired, serving as both a boarding and day school. Over the decades, the school evolved, culminating in the opening of the new St. Anne’s School in 1932.

Throughout its history, St. Anne’s has adapted to serve the needs of its community, marking many milestones, including the opening of St. Philomena’s Secondary School in 1938. Although the Sisters of St. Joseph of Cluny transferred the school’s administration to the Sisters of Our Lady of Nazareth in 2011, their legacy of empowering young women continues under the guidance of the current Head of School, Miliana Caginavanua.

Mrs. Caginavanua, who has climbed the ranks to leadership over nearly a decade, emphasizes the school’s integral role in shaping girls from diverse backgrounds, including daughters of indentured laborers. She highlighted the enduring traditions and values instilled in students, such as discipline, proper conduct, and a strong sense of community.

Reflecting on the school’s impact, Mrs. Caginavanua noted the notable alumni who have emerged as leaders in various sectors, symbolizing the school’s commitment to fostering empowerment and integrity. As St. Anne’s approaches its 200th anniversary, she inspires future generations to embody the values of hard work, culture, and fearlessness that have defined the institution.

St. Anne’s Primary School stands as a beacon of empowerment, aiming to equip young women with the tools to navigate and thrive in the world, and leaving an indelible mark on the education landscape of Fiji. This enduring legacy highlights the importance of faith, resilience, and community support in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

As we look forward to the future, the spirit of St. Anne’s serves as a reminder of the transformative power of education in nurturing confident and capable women who will continue to make meaningful contributions to society.


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