Drug death
A mother is distraught and very sad indeed to bury her methamphetamine drug addicted 26-year-old son after his death two weeks back here in Nadi after her husband’s death last year. My point is if our children wish to suffer and die from their own doing so what. Let it be as that is their decision and their constitutional right to die but it’s not God’s plan. Very simple, it’s eternal hell as a talatala will have pointed out. First it’s wrong to use the Lord God Jehovah’s name in vain and secondly it is a simple straight forward reflection of the children’s upbringing by their parents from birth to adulthood. I do hope this simple letter will drive some sense home to would-be fathers and mothers. It’s nobody else to be blamed but the parents. Isa o cei na luvena is the norm when a child passes. Tukai Lagonilakeba, Nadi
Education reform
While I agree with the Fiji Teachers Association (FTA) in their ‘bid to remove policy’ (FT 28/10), regarding the no-repeat policy in Fiji’s schools, however, I would like to challenge them as well to be more analytical in finding out the root cause which contribute to the significant drop in Fiji’s literacy and numeracy rate. I certainly believe that the non-repeat policy is just one of the many contributing factors to the claims made by the FTA, about the significant drop in literacy and numeracy rate in schools, nevertheless, I would like to also consider other factors such as technology, human rights, education systems to name a few. Today we see a generation that is not keen to read — for everything one wants to know is at their fingertips thanks to Mr Google. Today we see a generation that is not eager to show respect for there are laws that protect them to be punished if they err, thanks to Human Rights. Today we are still following an outdated education system of the colonial days that is not creative enough to cater for holistic learnings and enable critical thinkers especially in this new era and age of technologies. In order to address the issue of numeracy and literacy, I believe there must be an educational reform that is inclusive in looking at the various factors mentioned. Kositatino Tikomaibolatagane, Vuninokonoko Rd, Navua
Diwali and fire crackers
There are some in our society who do not think fire crackers are not relevant to Diwali. Since I was born the only time we play with fire crackers is during Diwali. The only crackers are sold is during Diwali. These so-called people irritated with crackers played their childhood days with crackers but are trying to deprive our young ones from enjoying their childhood days. On the topic of wasting money, there are many ways through which money is wasted. But when it comes to our festivals, people are giving their zero-dollar opinions. Please allow people to celebrate this very important festival through whatever means. Do not try to deprive them of their means of happiness. However, people must be realistic on safety and welfare issues. Children must be supervised at all times. Pray for everyone’s safety and protection with prosperity of health and family status. Let us respect each other and celebrate with family and friends. Let us join hands to maintain peace and prosperity in our nation. If you think fire crackers is irrelevant in celebrating Diwali do not use it but do not try to deprive others. Happy Diwali to everyone. Dhirendra Prasad Lautoka
Political antics
MAHENDRA Chaudhry is in the spotlight again, and not exactly for his political prowess. Instead of focusing on healing old wounds, he seems to be poking at them with a stick, looking for attention. As he rallies behind USP workers demanding the removal of Vice Chancellor Pal, one has to wonder if he’s trying to become the new “TikTok star” of Fiji politics. Now, he’s criticising the appointment of Ratu Naiqama as Fiji’s next president, claiming Ratu Naiqama’s record is “not acceptable”. Ironically, Chaudhry was one of the brains behind the establishment of the Reconciliation and Unity Commission in the Qarase government. So, is he trying to reopen the wounds that many Fijians wish would just stay bandaged? His questionable tactics and constant attacks seem less about fostering unity and more about keeping himself relevant. It’s almost like he’s auditioning for a role in a political comedy “Chaudhry: The Reunion Tour,” where the punch lines just don’t land! Avenai Serutabua, Nabukelevu Village, Serua
