To celebrate 65 years of existence is a rare and prestigious milestone that unites many.
As we draw closer to the 65th Blue Sapphire Anniversary weeklong celebration, we build on the opportunity that will bring everyone closer together.
Ratu Sukuna Vuli-Oti (RSVO) Blue Sapphire Celebration Committee (RBSCC) member, Iliesa Lutu said this year’s anniversary has provided a platform for the RSVO communities in Fiji and abroad to strengthen the connection and bonds.
“Members of RSVO are proud of the school and how it has nurtured and shaped them to where they are today, whether a farmer, a housewife in the village, a blue or white-collar employee in Fiji or a soldier serving overseas, a retiree we all feel a sense of pride and belonging to the RSVO community,” Mr Lutu said.
“This year’s celebration will see a lot of interaction and talanoa sessions between current students and the alumnae.
“RSVO members would like to share their journey from the school’s corridors to where they are today.”
He said the anniversary has seen stronger connection and gathering of RSVOs decades and branches in Fiji and abroad.
“This year’s celebration has seen RSVO UK tour Oxford University that Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna attended and the celebration culminated with a black-tie dinner. RSVO Australia organised a harbour cruise in Sydney which was a sellout event.
“In addition to those celebrations, the RSVO in Australia, UK, USA and New Zealand also offered to host events for the week-long celebration.”
To also commemorate the 65th anniversary, the alumni would like to work closely with the school in revitalising the school’s traditional dance (meke), songs and chants — providing lessons on traditional culture and arts.
“RSMS stands tall with other educational institutions in Fiji and it prides itself as the school that was founded by the Great Council of Chiefs to educate young itaukei children.
“RSMS does not only provide education to iTaukei students but to all races – sharing the knowledge of culture and traditions to all.”
On preparation for the upcoming celebration, the committee is working tirelessly behind the scenes to execute a grand and memorable celebration.
“Preparing the events is not an easy feat and the RBSCC challenges itself to host a one of a kind with the RSVO Blue Sapphire Black Tie Ball being the main highlight.
It will be a night of glamour and grandeur Ball will be held on Saturday August 16 – Day 8 of the celebration.
Entertainment will be provided by renowned local artist throughout the night. Artists represent different genres and decades that will be enjoyed by all.
Artists like Saimone Vuatalevu, Seru Serevi, Georgina Ledua, Laisa Vulakoro, Etta Gonerogo, Ratu, Josa, Bulou and Grace Vuata of Primanavia, Voqa kei Nabukalou and others will be performing.
“The RSMS student choir will also perform under the guidance of internationally acclaimed singer and choir master, Soko Loga.”
Mr Lutu thanked the sponsors, partners and the Great Council of Chiefs and Government ministries who have come on board to support the celebration.
The event will start this Saturday August 9 with a march from the Flea Market to Ratu Sukuna Park in Suva. The President and alumni of the school, Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu will be the chief guest at the anniversary’s opening ceremony on Saturday.
RSMS prides itself as the school that was founded by the Great Council of Chiefs to educate young students in preserving their culture and traditions. Picture: RSMS
Students of RSMS during the Ratu Sukuna Day Celebration in 1994. Picture: FT File
Form 4G students and teacher in 1972. Picture: RSMS