The Tamil language is making a significant comeback in Fiji after an 80-year absence, as announced on Wednesday at Penang Sangam School in Rakiraki by India’s High Commissioner, Palaniswamy Subramanyan Karthigeyan. This revival stems from a Tamil language teaching program funded by the Indian government, aimed at addressing the long-standing demand from the Fiji Indian community for the instruction of their heritage language.
As part of this initiative, two Tamil teachers from India will be stationed at Penang Sangam School and Sangam Primary School in Labasa. Their role will be to conduct Tamil language classes for students and community members eager to learn. Mr. Karthigeyan emphasized the importance of the Tamil language, which is recognized as one of the oldest classical languages globally, highlighting its cultural significance, particularly for the descendants of Girmitiyas from Tamil Nadu who settled in Fiji in the early 20th century.
This program is being implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Education in Fiji and the Then India Sanmarga Ikya Sangam, a prominent organization within Fiji’s Indian diaspora. The agreement for this initiative was finalized after a visit by India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar to Fiji for the 12th World Hindi Conference, where he engaged with representatives of the Fiji diaspora.
Mr. Karthigeyan expressed optimism that this initiative would rejuvenate interest in the Tamil language, which has dwindled in Fiji over the years. He reiterated that a language plays a crucial role in preserving culture and fostering understanding among different communities. With over 80 million global speakers, Tamil deserves recognition and cultivation, which Mr. Karthigeyan encourages among the Fijian populace.
In addition, the cooperation aims to further strengthen the relationship between India and Fiji. Meanwhile, students at Penang Sangam School participated in a quiz contest organized by the Indian High Commission, showcasing their engagement in cultural and educational activities.
This initiative presents a beacon of hope for cultural preservation and community enrichment, re-establishing a vital connection for many families and individuals in Fiji to their linguistic heritage. It opens doors for greater cultural exchange and understanding in diverse societies.
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