Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, the chairperson of the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC), has voiced serious concerns regarding the decline of Fiji’s indigenous languages and cultural heritage during the recent two-day GCC meeting. He emphasized the need for immediate action to safeguard these vital aspects of Fiji’s identity.
Ratu Viliame articulated that language is not merely a tool for communication; it is intrinsically linked to a community’s sense of self. The council has reflected on the detrimental impacts of losing indigenous languages, noting that such a loss could threaten Fiji’s cultural identity and the future of its society.
He reminisced about previous discussions that highlighted the alarming deterioration of language, attributing it partly to various social issues that have disrupted family structures and the transmission of cultural values from parents to children. “When we neglect our children and fail to guide them at home, they can be easily influenced by external ideas and cultures, many of which do not align with our traditions,” Ratu Viliame pointed out.
The negative role of social media in exposing the youth to foreign cultures and languages was also a significant topic of concern. Ratu Viliame stressed the importance of controlling this exposure to preserve the uniqueness of Fijian culture.
In light of these challenges, the GCC is proactively seeking solutions. Ratu Viliame disclosed that education and culture subcommittees have convened with key stakeholders, including chiefs, to find effective strategies. A pivotal recommendation from these discussions is to make the Fijian language a compulsory subject in primary schools nationwide.
“We need to focus on the next generation and ensure they are well-informed,” he said. By incorporating Fijian into the primary school curriculum, children will not only learn the language but also gain insight into the cultural values that it embodies.
This initiative reflects a hopeful commitment to fostering cultural pride and preserving Fiji’s rich heritage for future generations, highlighting a unified effort to combat the decline of indigenous languages and promote their importance in contemporary society.
To add even more value, community involvement in promoting local languages should be encouraged through cultural workshops and events that celebrate Fijian traditions, creating a more vibrant connection between the youth and their heritage. This could lead to stronger community bonds and a renewed appreciation for the unique identity of Fiji.
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