The University of Fiji is set to establish a groundbreaking Centre for iTaukei Studies Bure and Hindi Centre, dedicated to cultural empowerment and linguistic research, with a significant investment of $1 million. This initiative was officially announced by Deputy Prime Minister Viliame Gavoka during the centre’s groundbreaking ceremony in Lautoka.
Mr. Gavoka described the centre not merely as an academic program but as a vital national project aimed at preserving and enhancing the iTaukei and Hindi languages, which are integral to Fiji’s heritage. The centre’s objectives include advancing research related to culture, identity, and history, ensuring that future generations inherit knowledge that is both authentic and rigorous.
A critical component of the centre will be its commitment to training teachers, storytellers, researchers, and leaders who can promote and champion both indigenous and Indo-Fijian knowledge systems. Importantly, it aims to create an environment where these languages are not only taught but are also experienced as living cultural expressions that foster unity among the diverse communities in Fiji.
Deputy Prime Minister Gavoka emphasized that the true strength of the nation is rooted in its cultural wealth. He highlighted that the centre is built on solid foundations, noting that 2024 has been a year of substantial progress for the University of Fiji. The institution has achieved a positive financial turnaround, returning to surplus while continuing to uphold rigorous international quality assurance standards.
He expressed gratitude to all stakeholders including the council, academic staff, and development partners for their contributions towards the university’s growth. Mr. Gavoka attributed the successful initiation of this project to the Coalition Government’s historic capital grant, marking a significant commitment to revitalizing and preserving the iTaukei and Hindi languages, both recognized as national languages in the current Constitution.
This initiative symbolizes a promising step forward in nurturing cultural identity and academic excellence within Fiji, underscoring the government’s dedication to ensuring the growth and development of its people through their languages.
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