Teachers remain the foundation of Fiji’s unity and nation-building journey, Acting Prime Minister and Minister for Trade, Co-operatives, MSMEs and Communications, Hon. Manoa Kamikamica, told delegates at the opening of the 91st Annual Delegates Conference of the Fijian Teachers Association (FTA) today (25.08.25).
Hon. Kamikamica reflected on the conference theme, “Butu Mawe kei na Solesolevaki ni Vuli ni Kawa iTaukei,” noting that perseverance and collective effort are values that strengthen not only classrooms but the entire nation.
The Acting Prime Minister shared a deeply personal connection with the Association, recalling his late mother’s service as the 17th President of the FTA and her role in opening the Education House.
“Her legacy reminds me daily of the profound impact teachers have in shaping our national identity, our economy, and our future,” he said.
Hon. Kamikamica highlighted recent milestones that underline the Association’s vision and leadership. He congratulated teachers on the commissioning of the Uluinatabua Teachers Village in Lautoka, officiated by Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, describing it as a landmark investment in teachers’ dignity and well-being.
He also commended the groundbreaking of Lot 11Knolly Street, a five-storey FTA facility that he said, “symbolises foresight, resilience, and a commitment to progress that will serve teachers and Fiji for generations.”
Highlighting the inseparable link between education and economic growth, the Acting Prime Minister stressed that every entrepreneur, cooperative leader, and innovator begins their journey in the classroom.
“The discipline and values teachers instill in students today are the same qualities that drive resilient businesses, thriving co-operatives, and innovative entrepreneurs tomorrow,” he said.
Hon. Kamikamica also drew attention to Fiji’s digital transformation, noting the significance of Google’s entry into Fiji. He described it as a milestone that brings new infrastructure, opportunities for digital learning, and access to world-class resources for both teachers and students.
“Google’s presence is more than a corporate investment,” he said.
“It is a bridge to the future – ensuring that our children are not only connected to a universe of knowledge but guided responsibly and creatively by our teachers.”
Concluding his remarks, the Acting Prime Minister affirmed the Coalition Government’s commitment to teachers as partners in nation-building.
“This conference is not just an annual gathering; it is a call to action. When we invest in teachers, we invest in Fiji’s unity, resilience, and prosperity. Teachers are not only educators; they are role models and nation-builders.”
“May God bless the Fijian Teachers Association, may God bless our teachers, and may God bless Fiji.”