In a heartwarming display of international solidarity, Lifeline Community Service, a charitable organization that was previously based in war-torn Belfast, Northern Ireland, made significant contributions to the educational needs of students at Lelean Memorial School in Nausori throughout the 1980s.
An article published on August 24, 1984, by The Fiji Times highlighted the selfless efforts of this organization. Over a span of more than 20 years, Lifeline raised funds through various initiatives, including an impressive campaign that involved baking and selling 1,600 cakes.
Rob Pattison, a devoted science teacher at Lelean Memorial, expressed deep appreciation for Lifeline’s continuous support, noting the substantial impact it had on the students. “The help they’ve extended to their community resonates deeply with us here in Fiji,” Mr. Pattison stated.
Originating from Portadown College in Belfast, Lifeline focused on aiding victims impacted by the local conflict. The article noted that despite the challenges they faced, Lifeline extended its compassion beyond borders, exemplifying a commitment to global citizenship and education.
Ratu Josua Toganivalu, Fiji’s High Commissioner to Great Britain during that period, visited Portadown College to express gratitude on behalf of the students from Lelean. During his visit, he presented a traditional piece of masi cloth as a token of appreciation, and in return, he received a school plaque symbolizing the friendship between the two institutions.
The visit included a poignant moment when Ratu Josua was unexpectedly serenaded with a traditional Fijian song, arranged by Jennifer Douglas, a teacher at Portadown College, who had helped students learn the song as a tribute to their peers in Fiji.
Lifeline’s support was crucial in improving educational resources at Davuilevu School, funding magazine subscriptions, calculators, and books on computer studies. Motivated by an article written by Mr. Pattison in an international teachers’ magazine, students at Lifeline initiated fundraising efforts to address specific needs at Lelean, particularly in science education.
“The initial donation came from their collective effort in baking and selling cakes,” Mr. Pattison explained. They have since organized further fundraising activities, including an upcoming walk-a-thon, to sustain their support for the school.