The chairperson of the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC), Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, has expressed significant concern regarding the decline of Fiji’s indigenous languages and cultural practices, highlighting the urgent need for preservation. During a two-day GCC meeting that recently concluded, this pressing issue was a central topic of discussion.
Ratu Viliame emphasized that language serves as more than just a means of communication; it is a fundamental aspect of a community’s identity. He noted that the potential loss of language could lead to a diminished cultural identity, which could have considerable implications for the future of Fiji.
Reflecting on past concerns about the erosion of language, he pointed out various social factors impacting the transmission of language within families. He cited the role of family guidance and the importance of parental involvement in safeguarding cultural values. He also underscored the adverse effects of social media, which often prioritizes foreign cultures, thereby threatening local traditions.
To counter these challenges, the GCC has initiated proactive measures. Ratu Viliame announced that education and culture subcommittees have been collaborating with relevant stakeholders, including chiefs, to determine effective solutions. A key recommendation that emerged from these discussions is to make the Fijian language a compulsory subject in primary schools across the nation. This initiative aims to ensure that future generations learn not only the language but also the cultural values attached to it.
By reinvigorating the Fijian language within the educational curriculum, the hope is to cultivate a strong sense of identity and pride among young Fijians, helping to preserve their unique cultural heritage for years to come.
This proactive stance taken by the GCC offers a positive outlook on preserving Fiji’s rich linguistic and cultural landscape, ensuring that future generations will continue to connect with their heritage.
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