Felix Magnus, the executive chairman of the Nasinu Town Council, is set to announce a proposal for a mandatory national service ordinance designed to empower youth and tackle pressing social issues. This announcement will take place during the Fiji Day celebrations at the Valelevu Multi-Purpose Court, with the goal of involving young individuals in community service, environmental initiatives, and skills training to promote civic responsibility.
Mr. Magnus emphasized that this initiative goes beyond commemorating Fiji’s history; it aims to proactively prepare for the nation’s future. He stated, “National service will provide our young people with meaningful opportunities to contribute to society, develop their skills, and learn the value of civic duty.”
The proposed national service program will prioritize community engagement rather than military training, taking cues from successful international programs. Furthermore, Mr. Magnus suggested establishing a national youth think tank to create sustainable, long-term strategies that address the challenges faced by young people in Fiji.
“We need to look ahead, ensuring that we’re building a future where our youth have the opportunities and support they need to succeed,” he remarked. He believes that this think tank would facilitate a coordinated approach to confronting these issues effectively.