Fiji’s Cultural Identity at Risk: Urgent Call to Preserve Indigenous Languages

Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, the chairperson of the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC), has raised an important alarm about the decline of Fiji’s indigenous languages and cultural practices. During a recent two-day GCC meeting, he highlighted the urgency of taking action to safeguard these critical components of community identity.

Ratu Viliame emphasized that language is more than just a means of communication; it is fundamental to the identity of communities. The GCC members expressed their concerns that a further loss of language could negatively impact Fiji’s cultural identity, potentially leading to significant consequences for the nation’s future.

He noted that many issues faced today—such as the breakdown of familial guidance—are key contributors to the weakening of language transmission among younger generations. Ratu Viliame pointed out that when children lack proper guidance at home, they may adopt external influences that do not align with traditional cultural values, particularly through unregulated exposure to social media.

To combat these challenges, the GCC is taking proactive measures. Ratu Viliame mentioned that education and culture subcommittees have begun engaging with key stakeholders, including local chiefs, to explore possible solutions. A prominent recommendation from these discussions is to reinstate the Fijian language as a mandatory subject in primary schools throughout the country.

By implementing this change in the education system, the aim is not only to teach children the Fijian language but also to instill the underlying cultural values associated with it. Ratu Viliame believes that fostering this cultural understanding in the next generation is crucial for preserving what makes Fiji unique.

This initiative represents a hopeful step toward nurturing and sustaining Fiji’s rich cultural heritage, ensuring that future generations can appreciate and contribute to the nation’s unique identity. Engaging young people with their roots can lead to a revival of pride in their language and culture, ultimately paving the way for a stronger and more cohesive society.

In summary, Ratu Viliame’s call to action demonstrates a collective commitment to protecting Fiji’s heritage, encouraging a renaissance of cultural appreciation among the youth.