Shaping minds and hearts
As a teacher, I applaud editor-in-chief Fred Wesley for his insightful editorial titled “Shaping minds and hearts” in The Sunday Times (06/10). World Teachers Day was celebrated on Saturday, and I appreciate Fred for highlighting our unsung heroes. His editorial provided a wonderful opportunity for readers to reflect on the vital role teachers play in our nation’s development. UNESCO designated the day with the theme, “Valuing teacher voices: Towards a new social contract for education.” Indeed, there is a pressing need to recognize the essential part educators play in shaping the future of education and the importance of integrating their insights into educational policies and decisions. It is crucial to acknowledge the influence teachers have on our children’s lives beyond their teaching roles, serving as guardians, counselors, role models, and friends. Therefore, it is essential to advocate for greater support for teachers by revisiting our education system and the positive impact it can have on our national development. Fred concluded his editorial with the powerful statement, “We need to work together to shape the minds and the hearts of our future generations.” Well articulated, Fred!
Lautoka CBD flooding
I am extremely concerned about the ongoing flooding in the main CBD of Lautoka, which has become increasingly common after just two hours of rain. This problem has troubled our community at least once or twice every year for the past five years. It is disappointing that, despite the recurrence of these events, neither the Lautoka City Council nor the Fiji Roads Authority has provided an effective solution. It is apparent that these floods are caused by inadequate drainage and poor planning. We urge both organizations to stop using climate change as an excuse. The community deserves active measures to tackle these urgent issues. The recent flooding coincided with the closing day of the Sugar Festival, impacting many small businesses, food stall vendors, and amusement ride operators. The ramifications of inaction are severe, and we expect better from our leaders. To the CEO of Lautoka City Council, be assured that we are monitoring your actions. You have held your position long enough to take decisive measures and ensure accountability from the Fiji Roads Authority. Enough with the excuses; we demand tangible results.
Cost of empty bus cards
The recent incident in Lovu, Lautoka, where children were offloaded for attempting to pay fares with 50 cent coins, underscores a significant issue. It is disheartening that in 2024, a mere 50 cent coin can derail a child’s education in Fiji. What a misguided system we have! Fiji’s e-ticketing system, introduced in 2017, was intended to transform public transport by eliminating cash fares. Yet five years later, children are left stranded due to untopped e-cards. The promise of convenience has been marred by unreliable top-ups, confusing fare structures, and inadequate communication. The absence of regular top-ups and failure to implement emergency solutions for such situations have turned this system into a problem. Common sense is essential; no child should face exclusion due to an empty bus card. We need more than just technology; we need an efficient system that serves everyone.
Rural poverty
Addressing the high levels of rural poverty is a significant issue frequently discussed during district and provincial meetings, according to Minister Sakiusa Ditoka (FT 3/10). This concern is expected since the notion of “subsistence affluence” regarding rural populations has been misleading, failing to recognize how social changes have affected rural communities. It is encouraging to hear that the government has plans in place to tackle this issue.
Progressive EFL
It is promising to see the recent agreement signed between ADB and Energy Fiji Ltd (EFL) aimed at improving our electrical power supply through renewable energy. EFL has faced challenges, culminating in a $24.8 million net loss last year due to rising electricity demand. While it’s clear that their 2025 mission may not be achieved, there is a focus on awareness for its 2035 objectives. The “energy transformation” also aims to empower iTaukei resource owners’ participation in enhancing renewable energy projects. This presents a significant opportunity for the current government to prioritize land development for iTaukei resource owners. History teaches us that inaction in critical moments enables injustice to prevail. Effective leadership is not about authority, but about nurturing those under your care.
Speirs resigns
Former South Australian Liberal leader David Speirs has resigned after a video surfaced showing him inhaling a white substance (Seven News 5/10). It is customary in a democracy for a leader to resign when they fail to uphold ethical standards to ensure governance is not compromised. Is this a standard that applies within Fiji’s democracy?
What’s next
With the potential renaming of Prince Charles Park to King Charles Park due to the change in monarchy, one wonders what the future holds. When will King Charles pass away? Simon suggests we focus on local matters.
Boys will be boys
Rohit Deo’s article in The Sunday Times (06/10) discussing chapter six of The Rise of the Drua captured the experiences and challenges faced by young athletes like Manasa Saulo. From adapting to rigorous training to dealing with local wildlife fears and culinary cravings, these young men embodied a playful spirit alongside a strong commitment to community service during local floods. Thanks to rugby commentators Greg Clark and Norman Tasker as well as former CEO of Drua Brian Thorburn, I was inspired by the story of camaraderie and growth, highlighting how these athletes navigate new challenges while redefining their identities. Saulo’s amusing adventures, including his famed raid on a chicken shop where he devoured five kilograms of hot wings, brought laughter and unity to the team.
Civil aviation
International Civil Aviation laws must be adhered to without exception. The regulations are clear, and it is imperative that everyone is made aware of this requirement immediately.
Stop sending arms
In a recent Counter Punch article published on September 26, 2024, Brian Garvey posed the question, “Will Biden stop sending arms to Israel?” The ongoing supply of arms despite the evident human cost undermines the administration’s calls for ceasefire and peace, revealing a level of hypocrisy.
The blindness
The intense animosity towards the previous administration and self-interest seems to contribute to a current “blindness” regarding pressing issues.
Navratri festival
The Hindu festival of Navratri began on Thursday, October 3, and is being observed for nine days, marking a vibrant and spiritually significant time for Hindus worldwide. Dedicated to goddess Durga, all nine forms of the deity are worshipped, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil. Temples are adorned and cleaned, creating a lively atmosphere for devotees who prepare spiritually, mentally, and physically through fasting, abstaining from alcohol and meat, and engaging in fire rituals, bhajans, and traditional dances. Daily offerings of prasadams are made. The nine forms of goddess Durga celebrated during this festival include Shailputri, Brahmacharani, Chandraghanta, Kushmanda, Skandamata, Katayayani, Kalaratri, Mahagauri, and Siddhidayatri. This festival sets the stage for the significant festival of Diwali, which will be celebrated on November 1, 2024.
Wishing all my Hindu brothers and sisters a joyful and blessed Navratri celebration, may the goddess bestow her blessings upon all her devotees.