Changing behaviour was the focus of the Recycling on the Go (ROG) Ambassadors Leadership Forum held earlier this month, says Education Minister Aseri Radrodro said.
The event was an initiative of Pacific Recycling Foundation, in partnership with Tanoa Hotel Group, Swire Shipping and Tourism Fiji.
Mr Radrodro said it was aimed at changing every day behaviour and creating an environment with a culture of sustainability to last generations
This year’s forum was held at the Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi featuring five ROG ambassadors from Jai Narayan College, Jasper Williams High School, Nadi Sangam Primary School, and Queen Victoria School, who presented their waste management journeys, challenges and solutions. Students from Holy Cross College in Taveuni attended as observers.
Mr Radrodro said environmental stewardship begins with the ROG ambassadors, who are the next generation of leaders.
“I envision the next generation of change makers who will help lead the fight against waste, against pollution and climate change, not only in our schools, but in our communities and beyond,” he said.
“As we all know, waste is one of the leading contributors to environmental degradation, and we must take action to reverse the impact of our habits.”
Mr Radrodro said the initiative spoke volumes of the collective responsibility to protect the environment.
“Recycling is not just a simple task. It is an act of caring for our environment, our commitment and our future.
“Through programs such as ROG ambassadors, students are not only learning the value of recycling, but they are also leading the way for their peers, for their families and communities to do the same.
“You are the innovators, you are the change makers, you are the leaders, and I am proud of what you have accomplished. You have already achieved, and as ambassadors, you are creating a ripple effect that will influence the people around you to adopt responsible waste management habits.”
Pacific Recycling Foundation founder Amitesh Deo said the ROG program was about the PRF bringing together a group of activists, more specifically students who are activists at heart.
“So, this program is a bit more than a recycling program. It’s about getting students together, and when they see social injustice and when they see environmental injustice, they’re able to speak out and pull out for better action.”
He said the event was also about the ROG ambassadors looking deep into the core issues of advocacy, about advocacy and working together and bringing about accountability to religious leaders, to community leaders, also to the Government and around all members of the community, including sports personalities.
Recycling on the Go ambassadors and Swire Shipping Fijian Drua players are pictured with (seated third from left middle row) Swire Shipping regional manager Pacific Islands Alex Pattison, Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs Lenora Qereqeretabua, Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro and Pacific Recycling Foundation founder Amitesh Deo at the ROG Leadership Forum at the Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi on February 6. Picture: SALOTE QALUBAU
