Six young Fijians have officially started their internships at the Fiji Museum, where they will play a crucial role in digitizing the museum’s rich collection of approximately 10,000 objects. This initiative, aimed at increasing global access to Fiji’s cultural heritage, comes after a thorough recruitment process overseen by the US Embassy, which allocated a grant of $457,000 from the Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation (AFCP) in 2021 to support the project.
Although the digitization project faced delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing renovations at the museum, the workspace has now been completed and the necessary equipment is in place. Andy Lowe, CEO of the Fiji Museum, expressed gratitude for the support received from the US Embassy, stating that this development will significantly enhance both current and future generations’ access to Fiji’s cultural heritage.
The US Ambassador to Fiji, Marie C. Damour, elaborated on the project’s importance, stating, “Through this project, we’re not just documenting Fiji’s past; we’re empowering young people to tell that story to the world.” This sentiment aligns closely with ongoing efforts in Fiji to digitize historical records and artifacts, which are vital for fostering connections among communities and enhancing accessibility to cultural narratives.
In recent years, Fiji has seen considerable strides in preserving its historical records, as evidenced by similar initiatives at the National Archives, where the digitization of crucial Indian indentured labor records is underway. Collectively, these efforts signify a broader commitment to not only safeguarding documentary heritage but also ensuring that future generations remain connected to their history.
The Fiji Museum aims to complete its digital transformation by early next year, ushering in a new era for how Fiji’s cultural treasures are preserved and accessed globally. Such initiatives not only provide a hopeful outlook for the future of Fiji’s cultural landscape but also strengthen community ties and encourage young individuals to engage with their rich heritage.
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