President Wiliame Katonivere has expressed concerns regarding the diminishing respect between educators and iTaukei students. During the opening of the Fijian Teachers Association annual delegates conference at the Suva Civic Centre on Monday, he reflected on his own upbringing, emphasizing how parental guidance was instrumental in shaping his leadership qualities.
He noted, “I was raised in a disciplined environment, where I learned to value time, respect my elders, seek permission, make wise decisions, and act appropriately without the need for external validation or criticism. My mother was a true disciplinarian.”
Katonivere believes that the discipline he experienced in his formative years has influenced his roles as a traditional leader and a national leader. He shared these experiences to highlight the current decrease in respect between educators and students, particularly among the iTaukei, and stressed the importance of addressing this issue to nurture future leaders in communities, youth groups, churches, and professional settings.
He underscored the significance of education as a powerful tool for transformative change, stating, “The sustainability and prosperity of our vanua, our nation, our communities, and our families rely on both formal and informal education that incorporates values of compassion instilled in our children and youth.”
Katonivere mentioned that educators serve as an extension of home, reinforcing the lessons taught by parents. He expressed his passion for education and acknowledged the challenges young people face today, including social issues, peer pressure, illegal substances, and cyberbullying. He advocated for educators and guardians to share their experiences and lessons using constructive disciplinary methods.
He commended both current and former educators for their roles in the education sector and encouraged them to actively participate in nation-building, aligning their efforts with the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly in education, and strive for maximum achievement.