As many as 58 civil servants have been recognised for their service and dedication to the country following the Civil Service Medal investiture ceremony yesterday at the State House in Suva.
Officiating the ceremony, President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere said more than 100 nominations were approved for recommendation for the civil service medal award.
He said since its inception 29 years ago, there has been a sporadic number of awards given to the category of civil service.
“I sincerely expect this trend to gradually change in the subsequent years,” said Ratu Wiliame.
“We will agree that this year’s allocation of civil service medals is not substantial.
“You have my assurance that the substantial call for nominations for this category of awards will be accomplished. I’m proud to say today that this is the beginning of more to come.”
Ratu Wiliame said the awards, including supplementary decorations and special awards, serve as a source of inspiration for others to strive for excellence in their own service delivery, acknowledging acts of bravery for humanity at large.
“We celebrate the health practitioners, service providers in the civil service, and educators who cross rivers, mountains and terrains to get to their destination of work.
“This week is celebrating you and your selfless dedication to serving our people and our nation.”
Civil Service Medal recipient Sosiceni Manulevu, 50, has served five presidents over the past two decades as a gardener at the State House.
Speaking to this newspaper, the Logani, Bau, Tailevu native said he was grateful to be one of the civil servants recognised for their service.
Mr Manulevu said this was the result of patience, hard work and determination.
The Civil Service Investiture ceremony will continue this afternoon.
