The revival of Tamil language education in Fiji schools marks a significant cultural milestone after an absence of 80 years. High Commissioner of India, Palaniswamy Subramanyan Karthigeyan, announced this initiative during an event at Penang Sangam School in Rakiraki. The program, funded by the Indian government, will see two Tamil teachers from India appointed to teach Tamil language classes to both students and community members at Penang Sangam School and Sangam Primary School in Labasa.
Mr. Karthigeyan noted that the revival of Tamil, one of the oldest classical languages in the world, caters to a long-standing demand from the Fiji Indian community, particularly among the descendants of Girmitiyas who migrated from Tamil Nadu during the early 20th century. The initiative has been implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Education of Fiji and the Then India Sanmarga Ikya Sangam, a key organization within Fiji’s diaspora community.
This agreement follows a visit by India’s External Affairs Minister Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar to Fiji earlier this year for the 12th World Hindi Conference, during which he engaged with representatives of the diaspora. Mr. Karthigeyan emphasized the importance of language in preserving cultural identity and fostering mutual understanding among various communities. With over 80 million speakers globally, Tamil represents a vibrant global linguistic heritage, and the High Commissioner encouraged the people of Fiji to embrace this opportunity to learn.
In a hopeful expression of collaboration, Mr. Karthigeyan conveyed optimism that this initiative will bolster the relationship between India and Fiji. TISI Sangam’s secretary-general, Gyaneshwar Rao, also expressed gratitude to India for its support in bringing back Tamil education to Fiji. Additionally, students from Penang Sangam School participated in a flash quiz organized by the Indian High Commission, further showcasing their engagement with cultural and educational initiatives.
This revival of Tamil language education represents not just a return to cultural roots but also a step towards fostering deeper connections between India and Fiji, celebrating diversity and heritage. The program not only benefits the Tamil-speaking community but enriches Fiji’s multicultural landscape, supporting a spirit of unity through language and education.
Leave a comment