Digital learning!
As a schoolteacher, I sensed the excitement with which the students of Tavua Primary School received laptops from accounting firm KPMG as part of KPMG’s initiative towards enhancing access to digital learning for students across Fiji and the Pacific (FT: 13/08). I’m thankful to the accounting firm for the Laptops for Lifelong Learning initiative, that was launched in Australia in 2022 and that has expanded for students in Fiji. Thank you, KPMG, for coming to assist these students. This great initiative will help close the digital divide and provide students with much-needed access to technology. It is good to teach students about technology at an early age, so they are aware of the pros and cons of using technology. After all, digital literacy skills assist students in teaming up with their peers in bringing about greater tasks and better grades. This digital age requires students to foster decisive reasoning and critical thinking abilities. The importance of digital literacy skills is becoming apparent as technology continues to envelop the daily lives of children. From social interactions to entertainment, education to professional life, the ability to use technology effectively is essential for our student’s modern advancement and success. Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
A good shake up!
How many properties in Fiji are owned by drug lords? And why has not a single security or intelligence agency had the foresight to flag these purchases? The old adage still rings true: “Follow the money trail, and it will always lead to the crooks and criminals.” Equally disturbing is this: how is it that certain politicians, on nothing more than a government salary, are able to afford multi-million-dollar homes and expensive apartments and rental portfolios? When the maths doesn’t add up, there’s a glaring red flag waving in plain sight. So, is this incompetence? And how about the Real Estate agents. Are they looking the other way too because all they care about is their commission? The public deserves answers. Because silence in the face of corruption is complicity. And that goes for some of the real estate agents too. Something and some people need a good shake up. Colin Deoki Australia
Kulas settle for sixth place!
Disappointing yet again, but the Fiji Football Junior Kulas finished at sixth place at the OFC U16 Women’s Championship in Samoa after losing 1-0 to Tonga. While the loss was unexpected, I’m glad head coach Marika Rodu rotated almost his entire starting eleven with the intention of giving other squad members valuable game time. I agree with Rodu that the side started the game well, but they lacked concentration in the second half which allowed the Tongans to score their only goal. Game control was lacking. The girls failed to follow the game plan which would have been to stick together passes, take ownership of possession and score goals. While the tournament exposed our girls and served as a learning ground for the players, it showed Fiji’s standard compared to the likes of Samoa and Tonga. Samoa will be flying high as their girls’ team will challenge NZ for the title. For Fiji, it’s back to square one! Our girls take back the experience they have learned so that they can better their performance in the upcoming competitions. Rajnesh Ishwar Lingam Nadawa, Nasinu
Stance against military base
PM reaffirms stance against foreign military bases (FT 13/8) on Fijian soil. A very good decision. I say this more as a pacifist then with regard to geopolitics. Rajend Naidu Sydney, Australia
Gender based violence
As a Norwegian living in Fiji, I am deeply concerned about the growing issue of gender based violence in our communities. Despite national awareness campaigns, I believe Fiji still has one of the highest rates of violence against women in the world, with many survivors unable to access justice or support. In Norway, strong legal protections, crisis centres, and coordinated services have reduced such violence showing real change is possible. I believe Fiji can take similar steps: enforce laws, expand safe houses, and promote education to challenge harmful norms. Selma Bortveit Suva
Playing politics
I find Rajend Naidu’s comments in your column interesting but asking. He pokes at DPM Professor Biman Prasad’s conscience asking whether he is playing politics only for political self-preservation and that he seems not unhappy with former FFP MPs joining the government. However, I wish to add that on the contrary, Prof Prasad must be deeply unhappy with former FFP MPs joining the Government but for entirely different reasons, which I guess we will find out soon. Sunil Kumar Nadi Back Rd
Nuclear remark
I refer to Reuters report under World News (FT 13/08) where Pakistan’s Army chief, Asim Munir is quoted saying that Pakistan is a nuclear country and if it goes down, it will take half the world down as well. It’s a shame that Asim Munir sits on US soil and makes such implied threats to India. But then what do you expect from the US which bullies other nations and supports dictators and terrorists like Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa. Rakesh Chand Sharma Nadi
Change is coming
In less than five years, I think (just my observation) people will start taking selfies (two fingers held up) with the dead. To return the favour, do you think the dead will respond with an extended middle finger? Mohammed Imraz Janif Natabua, Lautoka
Viber expert
What’s a Viber expert? I posed this unique question to a colleague. He said it’s someone who knows everything about Viber, but admitted it was not him. I told him the answer though. It’s Rakuten. Donald Singh Suva
Fighting dengue, litter
No rubbish poster displayed on Bhawani Dayal School fence (FT10/8 – Picture: Eliki Nukutabu) is a shame on those who litter, unless they are illiterate. An illiterate person is compared to animals! I strongly believe that people should be taught to at least read, understand and respect such notices displayed. If not, arrange with someone who can help you understand what it means. Or take it to talanoa sessions while socialising. Thanking the teachers, students and The Fiji Times for such posters. Cleanliness is next to godliness. Practise and be well blessed. Tahir Ali Hamilton, New Zealand
Police Act, India Day
Review of Police Act
One notes with interest the consultations which are underway and aims to engage public participation in the review of the Fiji Police Act 1965. While discussions are likely to focus on technical aspects, let’s not forget that the human aspect. Our police officers are human beings who have to cope with the stress of handling increased offences and crimes which sometimes involves rowdy individuals. One hopes that the family members of our police officers also are provided the space and opportunity to share their contributions also. One of the aims of this review is to lift the standards of professionalism in the Police Force. Like any other employees, everything begins at home for our diligent and dedicated police officers. All in all, let’s ensure an inclusive approach that involves the wives, husbands and family members of police officers. One wishes the best with this important review. May the professional standards of our police officers grow from strength to strength. Floyd Robinson Micronesia
Indian Independence Day celebrations
India is the world’s largest democracy with its 1.4 billion people. For over 200 years it was ruled by the British under repressive colonial laws. The Indian struggle for independence was launched by several groups: Indian National Congress, Indian National Army headed by Subhas Chandra Bose and many more. The struggle was long and arduous. On August 15, 1947 India finally gained its independence from British rule. On the same day the country was divided into India and Pakistan: typical British ploy to divide and rule to weaken the country. This unleashed mass migration of people across the borders. Thus resulting in the largest mass movement in the history of mankind. Violence erupted and thousands were killed and many more made homeless due to British lackadaisical attitude: no planned movement or safety provisions. India is a land of extremes and diversities. For the last 75 years it has had to face several challenges in its governance. Religious, linguistic and cultural differences, poverty, unemployment, lack of structural development and the traditional education system was shattered by the British. However, despite all challenges India has emerged as a superpower to be reckoned with. It is a nuclear power with the ability to explore in space and put satellites of its own. Massive roads, railways and airports have been built. Modern educational institutions and medical colleges have sprung up. A network of multi-lane modern highways, broad gauge railways enables for fast mobility and connectivity. The Independence Day celebrations begin with the hoisting of the national flag Tiranga (tricolour) on the ramparts of the Red Fort. This is followed by the speech of the Prime Minister to the nation recalling the achievements of the year and challenges of the future. All schools, colleges and universities celebrate Independence Day through dance, music and other cultural items. Kite flying is the speciality of the day. India has a very big military might: modern air force, well equipped army and a powerful navy. The display of might by these forces on Independence Day is a special hallmark. India has now become a manufacturer of military hardware: jet fighters, helicopters, missiles (Brahmos) etc. The inclusion of women in the air force, army and the navy has given additional impetus and empowerment. India plays a major role in world forums: United Nations, BRICS, SCO, G20 (including the Global South). India is a key player in maintaining world peace. May I wish India a very happy Independence Day 2025. Dewan Chand Namadi Heights, Suva