Among the 24 nations currently implementing the Saemaul Undong program worldwide, Fiji recently received accolades from Mr. Kwak, Dae Hoon, President of the Korea Saemaul Undong Center, during his visit to Silana Village in Tailevu.
Mr. Kwak and Hon. Sakiasi Ditoka, the Minister for Rural and Maritime Development and Disaster Management, visited Silana to evaluate the program's effects and express gratitude to the village residents for their dedication. This visit showcases Fiji's dedication to rural development and disaster management through its participation in the Saemaul Undong program, highlighting its positive influence on the Silana community.
Mr. Kwak, speaking to Silana villagers through an interpreter, commended Silana Village as an exemplary model that has garnered attention in Korea for its genuine eagerness to replicate the program's visionary approach.
"What I have witnessed here today stands as a testament to your unwavering dedication to the program. This initiative has united the people of Silana, enabling you to construct driveways and footpaths in the village through your collective efforts," he remarked.
Mr. Kwak also acknowledged, "I've observed that you have initiated businesses to sustain the village, and some of you have even ventured into independent entrepreneurial endeavors, which is a positive development for Silana Village."
Mr. Kwak added, "Based on the reports from our officers stationed in Fiji, we have determined that our projects here are performing exceptionally. This motivated me to visit in person. Only three and a half years into the implementation of the Saemaul Undong program in Fiji, we are further encouraged to continue our unwavering support to ensure its success."
On the other hand, Hon. Ditoka expressed gratitude to the Republic of Korea for their financial assistance and support, which has played a crucial role in promoting development within the village community.
The Minister likened this program to raising a child, explaining that it begins with a conception phase, followed by a series of stages in its implementation, all aimed at fostering the village's growth and development until it reaches a point of self-sustainability and prosperity.
"It's essential to recognize that such support programs have a starting and ending point," the Minister emphasized. "Therefore, it's crucial for the three villages involved in the program, Mau, Naimasimasi, and Silana, to establish an interchangeable program. This would allow selected villagers to visit their sister villages, observing firsthand the projects being implemented there and gaining fresh ideas."
"We are grateful that our visit today has unveiled your commitment to enter the tourism and homestay business, which has emerged as a result of the Saemaul Undong program," the minister expressed.
"Government, on its part, is committed to complementing the finalization of the two accommodations by the beachside, ensuring that they meet the same standards as your pricing," Hon Ditoka affirmed.
Silana Village Secretary, Ms. Marica Bole, shared that their initial project in 2016 was the beautification of the village, and it was two years later that the Government of the Republic of Korea stepped in to offer support.
She explained, "This funding greatly strengthened our efforts. With it, we were able to construct an office for our Turaga ni Koro, complete our water project, and build a village dispensary, now accessible in all weather conditions."
Ms. Bole also highlighted the improvements to the village infrastructure, saying, "You'll notice the paved paths and concrete driveway. These were designed with people with disabilities in mind."
She proudly added, "The opening of this bure today is a direct result of our motivation and the ideas inspired by the Saemaul Undong program, which promotes cooperation. It has also encouraged us to establish a cooperative business that is now successfully operating."
The Saemaul Undong, also known as the New Community Movement was initiated by South Korean President Park Chung-hee on April 22, 1970.
This movement drew inspiration from traditional Korean community values of collaboration and mutual support. It emerged in response to the significant disparity between the increasingly modern cities and the impoverished small villages.
The movement encouraged community members to collaborate, work diligently, and assist one another. Initially, the focus was on improving living conditions and cleanliness. Over time, efforts expanded to include infrastructure development such as roads and initiatives to enhance the income of village residents.
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