Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has inaugurated a new gymnasium at the Fiji Learning Institute for Public Service (FLIPS), marking a significant commitment to fostering a healthier, more resilient civil service. During the opening ceremony, Rabuka expressed that the facility symbolizes a broader initiative to prioritize health and wellness within national development strategies.
“This gym is not just a space for physical fitness; it signifies a shift towards making health a national responsibility,” said Rabuka. He emphasized the importance of taking time away from desks to focus on wellness, reminding attendees that individual health has a collective impact on productivity.
The Prime Minister’s remarks also underscored that this initiative aligns with the Government’s Strategic Framework for Civil Service Reform, centering on workforce wellbeing. He noted that programs like “Wellness Wednesday,” alongside the gym, demonstrate the government’s commitment to embedding wellness into daily practices.
Rabuka encouraged civil servants of varying fitness levels to utilize the new facility. He noted that even small lifestyle adjustments can greatly enhance individuals’ productivity and overall well-being. Beyond physical fitness, he highlighted the importance of balanced nutrition, adequate rest, and mental health. He urged ministries to adopt health-focused initiatives such as walking meetings, healthy food options, and inter-ministerial sporting events to promote collaboration and team spirit.
Commending the efforts of FLIPS in spearheading this initiative, Rabuka described it as “a cultural shift” in how health is perceived within the civil service. He concluded his remarks with a call to action, challenging civil servants to make wellness a continuous commitment rather than an occasional endeavor.
This opening comes amid growing recognition of the importance of wellness in the workplace, a theme echoed during recent events like the “Wellness Wednesday” organized by Rabuka, which aimed to promote a healthier workforce among civil servants. Such initiatives reflect a broader trend towards improving the health landscape in Fiji, presenting a hopeful vision for a nation committed to better health outcomes and a stronger public service.
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