STUDENTS, educators and dignitaries gathered at the Ratu Sukuna Memorial School groundsin Nabua, Suva yesterday to commemorate the life and legacy of Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna.
Speaking during the ceremony, Great Council of Chiefs chairman Ratu Viliame Seruvakula encouraged the students to understand Fiji’s history and the need for cultural preservation.
“His deeds and legacy are deeply woven into the fabric of our national story,” Ratu Viliame said.
“Ratu Sukuna’s life exemplified duty, leadership, education and service to both the government and the people of Fiji.”
Ratu Viliame highlighted two seminal works by Pacific historian Dr Deryck Scarr: Ratu Sukuna: Soldier, Statesman, Man of Two Worlds a detailed biography, and Fiji: The Three-Legged Stool, a compilation of Ratu Sukuna’s selected writings.
He said they offered profound insights into the life and philosophy of the late leader.
“To all our students, I encourage you to take time to read these works,” Ratu Viliame said.
“They will deepen your understanding of our history and help shape you as future leaders of this country.
“Despite the constraints, he laid the foundation for the independence we enjoy today. That alone is reason enough to honour him with a day of national remembrance.”
