Fiji’s future will not be written by chance but by your choices, says Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Trade Manoa Kamikamica.
During Lelean Memorial School’s cadet passing-out parade at Albert Park in Suva last week, he inspired the cadets by saying, “The next chapter of our nation’s story is yours to write; make it count.”
Mr Kamikamica commended the cadets for their dedication and discipline and told them they were “the builders of tomorrow” entrusted with the responsibility to lead Fiji into a brighter future.
“We are blessed to live in a time where education is free for all our children, a privilege that many before us could only dream of,” he said.
“This is not just a policy; it is a doorway to possibilities far beyond our towns and villages. Do not waste this gift; run with it, sharpen your skills, and use it to make Fiji stronger.”
Highlighting pressing social challenges, the Deputy Prime Minister warned that drug abuse and HIV were serious national concerns.
He cited the Ministry of Health’s 2024 report, which recorded over 1200 confirmed HIV cases with more than 60 per cent involving young people under 35.
Mr Kamikamica also expressed gratitude to the Methodist Church, teachers, parents, and the Republic of Fiji Military Forces for shaping the moral and leadership foundations of young people.
A total of 1300 students participated in the passing-out parade. The last such event for Lelean Memorial School took place 13 years ago.