Six interns from Fiji have been selected by the Fiji Museum to embark on a significant project that involves digitizing its extensive collection of around 10,000 objects. This initiative, which was delayed due to both the COVID-19 pandemic and renovations, is supported by a generous grant of $457,000 from the US Ambassadors Fund for Cultural Preservation, awarded back in 2021.
According to Fiji Museum Chief Executive Andy Lowe, this digitization project is crucial in making Fiji’s rich cultural heritage available online to a global audience. It aims to facilitate connections among local communities and enhance accessibility for researchers and the public. Lowe emphasized the importance of this initiative in preserving and sharing Fiji’s national heritage with future generations.
The US Ambassador to Fiji, Marie Damour, also highlighted that this project not only fosters cultural preservation but also empowers young people to engage with and promote Fiji’s history actively. The entire effort is slated to be completed by early 2026.
Interestingly, this digitization project aligns with similar efforts in the country, such as the National Archives of Fiji, which has made considerable strides in digitizing historical records, including Indian Indentured Labour Emigration Passes. The ongoing dedication to digitization showcases a broader strategy aimed at preserving Fiji’s documentary heritage and improving public access to vital records and cultural narratives.
Through these collective initiatives, there is a hopeful outlook for Fiji’s cultural landscape. By engaging young individuals in these projects, the nation not only preserves its past but also lays a strong foundation for future generations to connect with their ancestry and cultural traditions, fostering a sense of community and unity among its diverse population.
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