Arun Singh’s deep-rooted passion for reading has culminated in the creation of the Premier Book Centre, a beloved bookstore located in Ba, Fiji. At 82 years old, Singh reminisces about his early love for literature, sparked by his brother’s involvement with the Fiji Football Association and their shared afternoons in a local bookstore, which ignited his lifelong journey.
Singh founded the Premier Book Centre on August 15, 1964, at the young age of 21, after gaining invaluable experience working at the Ba Book Centre. This opportunity allowed him to appreciate the essential role that access to literature plays in a community, especially during difficult times when he had to support his family due to his father’s medical issues.
Over the years, Singh’s bookstore has become an integral resource for educational institutions throughout Fiji. He began by sourcing books from a Methodist bookshop in Suva but soon recognized a growing demand for diverse educational materials. To meet this need, Singh embarked on journeys to New Zealand, Australia, the UK, and Singapore, acquiring literature to enrich the academic resources available to local students, thereby making a significant impact on the educational landscape of Fiji.
Additionally, Singh has been a strong advocate for promoting the Hindi language in education. He has generously provided Hindi books free of charge to schools, fostering language learning among younger generations. While acknowledging the challenges posed by modern technology and shifting reading habits among children, he remains steadfast in his mission to cultivate a love for literature.
Beyond his business endeavors, Singh is passionate about improving educational standards. He raises concerns about automatic promotion policies in schools, advocating for more rigorous standards to enhance the quality of education for all children.
Through his unwavering dedication to reading and education, Singh exemplifies the belief that knowledge is a lifelong journey. As he contemplates his legacy, he hopes to inspire upcoming generations to cherish the written word. “I will retire when I leave this earth,” Singh asserts, illustrating that the Premier Book Centre is not merely a business but a heartfelt homage to his commitment to literature and learning.
Singh’s story highlights the profound impact that a love for books can have in igniting change and fostering future leaders, ultimately emphasizing the critical role of education in transforming societies. His journey serves as a reminder of the enduring power of literature in enriching lives and empowering communities.
Leave a comment