Fiji’s Bold Move to Revive Indigenous Language and Culture

The Fiji Cabinet has recently approved the National Action Plan on the International Decade of Indigenous Language (NAP-IDIL) to enhance the revival and preservation of the iTaukei language. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to safeguard indigenous languages and cultural heritage, which has seen diminishing presence in the country.

To ensure the successful implementation of the objectives outlined in the plan, an Implementation Plan will be developed. Furthermore, a policy framework for the iTaukei Language Commission will be established, aimed at bolstering language preservation efforts and fostering cultural sustainability over the long term.

This initiative comes in light of concerns expressed by Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, chairperson of the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC), regarding the alarming decline of indigenous languages and cultural practices in Fiji. During recent GCC meetings, he emphasized that language is not just a means of communication but a fundamental aspect of community identity. He pointed out that the erosion of language proficiency could lead to significant loss of cultural identity, posing threats to Fiji’s heritage and future.

Ratu Viliame highlighted issues such as the breakdown of family structures and the influence of social media, which often foster foreign cultures and languages over local traditions, contributing to this decline. In light of these challenges, the GCC has established cultural and educational subcommittees to engage with community leaders in pursuing effective strategies. A key recommendation emerging from these discussions is to make the Fijian language a mandatory subject in primary schools, which aims to instill language skills and cultural understanding in the next generation.

By prioritizing the Fijian language in education, there is hope for revitalizing Fiji’s unique cultural heritage and grounding future generations in their roots and identity. This concerted effort reflects a collective commitment to nurturing a deeper appreciation of indigenous languages and culture, ensuring that Fiji’s rich heritage endures amidst the rapid changes of the modern world.

Overall, this initiative symbolizes a positive step towards fostering pride and continuity in Fijian cultural practices and languages, thereby contributing to the resilience of the nation’s identity for years to come.