The iTaukei Trust Fund Board (TTFB) aims to enhance its scholarship initiative to support more students from the University of Fiji as part of its new partnership with the Centre for iTaukei Studies. Recently, two students were awarded scholarships under this program, which covers tuition and textbook costs.
The selection criteria for the scholarships are comprehensive, focusing on academic achievements, cultural involvement, and leadership capabilities. TTFB CEO Aisake Taito expressed aspirations to increase scholarship offerings in the future, depending on available financial resources. This initiative is intended to not only alleviate the financial strain on students but also to contribute significantly to the preservation and enhancement of iTaukei cultural knowledge and heritage.
This move aligns closely with TTFB’s ongoing commitment to education and cultural preservation, similar to its recent partnerships that have restructured curriculum offerings in iTaukei studies at the university, thereby promoting Indigenous knowledge. The establishment of the Centre for iTaukei Studies as the only dedicated facility of its kind in Fiji further emphasizes this goal, providing unique academic programs that focus on culture, language, and resource management.
Taito has highlighted the importance of these educational initiatives in empowering indigenous communities and fostering a deeper understanding of their rich cultural heritage. As the University of Fiji enhances its focus on innovative educational programs and construction of new facilities to support these initiatives, there is optimism about the future of iTaukei education and its integration into broader academic and economic landscapes.
Overall, these efforts signify a positive and proactive approach towards safeguarding and celebrating the iTaukei culture while equipping students with valuable skills for future endeavors.
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