On December 1, 1970, the Fiji Government officially acquired a state-of-the-art computer system, marking a significant advancement in the region’s technology capabilities, as reported by The Fiji Times. W. Barrett, the then Minister of Finance, highlighted the potential of this system to transform Suva into the primary data-processing hub of the South Pacific.
The sophisticated system, which was set to be installed in St Stephens House after a $100,000 renovation, was leased from International Computers Ltd of New Zealand. During a handover ceremony attended by approximately 40 officials and business representatives, T. Hartrick, the general manager of ICL, presented the system to Mr. Barrett.
Mr. Barrett emphasized the importance of this computer in providing essential planning and control data across various subjects. It was utilized for managing civil service payroll, trade statistics, income tax matters, conducting a school census, and supporting several key projects. Furthermore, there were aspirations for the system to evolve into a regional computer center, serving the needs of territories and small nations throughout the South Pacific.
This development is a hopeful step towards enhancing administrative efficiency and fostering regional cooperation through improved data management. The foresight of the Fiji Government in investing in technology can pave the way for future advancements and a more connected South Pacific.
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