72-year-old Divendra Prasad Sharma made a milestone achievement by graduating from the University of the South Pacific with a Certificate IV in counseling. He emphasized that age should not be a barrier to education, stating, “Education is everything. Try, and you can do anything, no matter your age.” His daughter, a lecturer, encouraged him to pursue his studies after he faced significant challenges earlier in life, including dropping out of school to support his family. Mr. Sharma’s journey serves as an inspiration, and he will be a motivational speaker at the upcoming USP Open Day.
In another matter, concerns were raised regarding the Asian Development Bank’s plan to allocate half of its lending to climate finance. Critics argue that investing in environmentally protective infrastructure, like sea walls, may not generate immediate income to repay the loans, suggesting a preference for projects that can produce revenue to fund such protections.
Meanwhile, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s remarks on social media’s impact on children resonate in Fiji, where alarming reports of school-aged girls engaging in sex for money have surfaced. There is a call for urgent action from parents, schools, and the Minister of Education to address these social issues.
In environmental news, the National Fire Authority issued a warning about the $10,000 maximum fine for unapproved rubbish burning. There is a suggestion that publishing the names of offenders would increase compliance among the public.
Local councils are urged to monitor recent developments closely, as new commercial and industrial buildings are reportedly emerging in residential areas. This situation calls for a reevaluation of development applications to prevent regulatory violations.
The popularity of online competitions has raised concerns about the potential financial pitfalls for participants. Many may unwittingly spend large amounts on entry fees while not being fully aware of the winner’s announcements, which are often not well-publicized.
Amid concerns about the drug crisis, there are calls for a more comprehensive approach that considers the capabilities of prisons and support systems for rehabilitation, rather than adopting a confrontational stance.
As students prepare to return to school, encouragement and support are emphasized to ensure they make the most of their educational journey.
In governance matters, one individual expressed unease about the current government’s effectiveness, likening it to a “Mickey Mouse Government in a Banana Republic,” while still acknowledging the blessings of the Fijian people.
Lastly, discussions about urban tree maintenance highlight the importance of preserving trees for future generations, urging authorities to take necessary actions against trees with open wounds that may compromise their health.