The Ministry of Education’s Acting Senior Curriculum Specialist, Social Science for Years 9 and 10, Ms Seruwaia Lee,
The Acting Senior Curriculum Specialist History, Mr Ilaisa Veivuke,
The Civic Education Curriculum Specialist Ms Scarlett Fairweather,
Year 10 Social Science Teachers, and
My FEO Family.
Ara Na Yadra, and a Victorious Morning to you all.
Though I cannot be present in person with you today, I am pleased to deliver this message to mark the opening of this important workshop, as we take a significant step forward in strengthening democracy in Fiji, beginning where it matters most – in our classrooms.
Today marks the beginning of an exciting journey, as you, our Year 10 teachers, pilot a newly improved elections resource. This curriculum has been carefully developed to bring democracy, elections, and governance to life for our young learners. But no matter how well-designed the materials are, their true power lies in the hands of those who bring them to life every day, you, our teachers.
Your insights, feedback, and classroom experience are essential. Civic concepts like elections and democracy may seem complex, but when made simple, engaging, and relevant, they can ignite curiosity, build confidence, and empower students to see themselves as active citizens shaping their communities. This is especially important for students in the Northern Division, who will directly benefit from this pilot and whose understanding of civic responsibility we are working to strengthen.
We are not simply asking you to trial a curriculum. We are inviting you to help shape the future of civic education for these students and across Fiji. Your role is foundational. Your guidance will ensure this resource reflects the realities of classrooms throughout our islands, urban, rural, maritime, and particularly in the Northern Division.
We also want to hear from the students. Their voices, questions, and reflections will show us if we are reaching them, inspiring them, and nurturing their understanding of participation, respect, and citizenship. As Nelson Mandela wisely said, and I quote, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,” unquote.
Through your teaching, you are equipping the next generation, especially those in the Northern Division, with that very power. The power to strengthen democracy, make their voices heard, and shape the future of Fiji.
At this juncture, I would like to thank our colleagues from the Ministry of Education and the UNDP for their invaluable support and collaboration in making this pilot possible. Your partnership is helping us bring civic education to our young learners in meaningful and practical ways.
Across our nation, we are building a generation that understands how their vote matters, how government works, and why every citizen, no matter how young, has a stake in our future. You are at the heart of this mission.
On behalf of the Fijian Elections Office, I thank you for your dedication, leadership, and passion for nurturing young minds.
Even though I am not present in person, please know that we are journeying alongside you in this important work.
I wish you every success as you begin this significant undertaking. May your efforts inspire curiosity, ignite a passion for civic engagement, and empower our young learners, especially those in the Northern Division, to understand the value of their voices in shaping Fiji’s future.
With those words, it gives me great pleasure to officially declare this workshop open.
Thank you, Vinaka vakalevu.
