The University of Fiji has proposed a mandatory National Service curriculum as part of its contribution to the ongoing review of the Education Act. This initiative aims to foster social responsibility and civic engagement among young people in the country.
Vice Chancellor Professor Shaista Shameem announced that the University Council has approved the establishment of a cadet program set to launch in 2025, marking the first time such a program will be available at the tertiary level in Fiji. The initiative had previously been limited to secondary schools. Professor Shameem noted that participants in the cadet program have already displayed a sense of duty and maturity, highlighting the positive behavioral changes associated with this type of engagement.
Professor Shameem identified several critical issues facing youth in Fiji, including the rising incidence of HIV, poverty, inadequate job opportunities, and widespread leadership failures. She believes that a structured national service program lasting between six to twelve months for individuals aged 18 to 25 could significantly enhance social cohesion and civic responsibility while addressing community needs.
The proposed program is designed to be inclusive and gender-neutral, offering essential skills in civic education, leadership training, and community service, as well as disaster response and environmental education. As part of its recommendations, the University plans to outline a framework for this national service in the revised Education Act it will submit to the Education Ministry.
The University’s research indicates that the concept of national service has been effectively implemented in other countries, such as Norway, South Korea, Finland, Sweden, Switzerland, and Israel, and suggests that Fiji should tailor a similar program to its unique context. A formal submission detailing the implementation framework is expected in due course.
This proposal aligns with broader movements within Fiji, such as the similar initiatives suggested by Felix Magnus, the executive chairman of the Nasinu Town Council, who has highlighted the potential for national service to empower youth while addressing significant societal challenges.
Overall, the University of Fiji’s initiative signifies a commitment to equipping young Fijians not only with practical skills but also with a deeper understanding of their role in society, fostering a generation that is both responsible and engaged. This collaborative effort could pave the way for a more socially aware and active youth, ultimately benefiting Fiji’s future.
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