There is no “vulagi” on Fiji Day or any other day and Fijians must continue to remove the divides of ethnicity, religion and province that are created and perpetuated by politicians.
This was reiterated by Assistant Minister for Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Veena Bhatnagar, as Fijians celebrate the country’s 49th year of independence from the United Kingdom.
“Today is about that powerful and unbreakable bond of national identity and celebrating what we have in common,” she told the Barara Youth and Social Club in Lomolomo, between Nadi and Lautoka.
“United by patriotism, we all fly the same flag and sing the same anthem on Fiji Day and that is the spirit of togetherness that should be carried within us not just today but every day of the year.”
With a record 10 years of consecutive economic growth and a digital transformation of Fijian Government services and programs, she urged young Fijians to contribute to national development and utilise youth programs through the Ministry of Youth and Sports.
The Assistant Minister has also encouraged more girls and young women to join or form youth clubs and contribute to community development.
“The theme for this year’s Fiji Day is “a progressive and sustainable Fiji for all”, and this is significant because it aligns to Government’s focus of prioritising the prosperity of our people today and protecting the wellbeing of the generations to come.”
Amongst its activities, the Barara Youth and Social Club has a funerary assistance scheme to help bereaved families in their neighbourhood. They received a donation from Hon. Bhatnagar, and were commended for empowering youths and actively helping fellow Fijians ensure the last rites when losing loved ones.