Students were encouraged to embrace education and their cultural heritage during day two of the Ratu Sukuna Day celebration at Albert Park last week.
The message was relayed to the students by the Education permanent secretary, Selina Kuruleca.
Ms Kuruleca reflected on Ratu Sir Lalabalavu Vanayaliyali Sukuna’s life and enduring legacy as a towering figure in Fiji’s history.
During her speech, Ms Kuruleca quoted Ratu Sukuna, who once said: “One without knowledge of their past is like a tree without roots – it cannot stand tall against the winds of change”.
“Students, Ratu Sir Lalabalavu’s life reflects the theme of our gathering today, ‘Celebrating visionary leadership in Fiji through education and culture’,” she said.
“He showed us the importance of embracing knowledge and serving others, regardless of challenges faced.
“Today as you reflect on his life, remember the theme of today’s event. Embrace education, cherish your cultural heritage, and aspire to be visionary leaders who shape the future of Fiji.”
According to a Ministry of Education statement, Ms Kuruleca concluded with a powerful call to action, urging all Fijians to carry forward Ratu Sukuna’s legacy.
“You are the living legacy of Ratu Sukuna’s vision. Your classrooms are his classrooms. Your dreams are the dreams he fought to make possible.
“He may no longer walk among us, but his spirit lives on in every school, every community, and every Fijian heart. Embrace your education. Embrace your heritage. Never stop reaching for greatness.”
“Let us carry his torch forward, not just as an obligation to the past, but as a sacred duty to future generations.”
Ms Kuruleca invoked Ratu Sukuna’s vision of a future guided by unity and dedication to the greater good, calling on all Fijians to honour his memory by striving for peace and prosperity.
“His exemplary leadership then was recognised by the monarch and continues to be relevant today, so as we celebrate and honour our great statesman, the Turaga Talai sa Bale– “Celebrating visionary leadership in Fiji through education and culture” Let us embody that leadership and be models to those around us.
“Let the spirit of Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna inspire us today and every day as we move forward with his vision in our hearts.”
Valebasoga Secondary School Year 13 student and winner of the Ratu Sukuna Day secondary school oratory contest, Penina Sogoa thanked God for the strength and wisdom to participate and win first place during the competition.
Sogoa said travelling from Labasa to be part of the contest had its fair share of challenges, but she managed to overcome those challenges to win.
She said it was a big opportunity for her to be part of the contest and to expose her talent as a public speaker.
Apart from the oratory contest, the day also included meke entertainment from Ballantine Memorial School and Ratu Kadavulevu School.
During the celebration the students got the chance to visit the Fiji Museum to see the artifacts that belonged to the late statesman during his leadership.