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Fiji National University champions vernacular language preservation

From FBC News · () English

Translated from English and summarized by DistantNews. Read the original for the full story.

At a glance

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  • Fiji National University is actively working to preserve vernacular languages through initiatives like its inaugural Vernacular Week.
  • The university emphasizes that these languages are crucial for identity, culture, and heritage, with a special focus on Fiji Hindi.
  • Educational programs, such as the Diploma in Vanua Leadership, are highlighted as key tools for empowering future leaders and maintaining cultural knowledge.

Fiji National University is taking a proactive stance in safeguarding the nation's linguistic heritage. Sera Lockington, Head of the Department of Language and Literature at FNU's College of Humanities, Education and Law, stressed the critical importance of using Fiji's vernacular languages in both spoken and written forms to prevent their extinction.

The continued use of Fiji’s vernacular languages in speaking and writing is vital to preventing their decline and extinction.

— Sera LockingtonHead of the Department of Language and Literature at FNU’s College of Humanities, Education and Law, remarking on the importance of vernacular languages.

Lockington's remarks came during the closing ceremony of FNU's first-ever Vernacular Week, held at the Natabua Campus under the theme "Empowering Indigenous Voices." The event aimed to bring students and staff together to celebrate the rich tapestry of Fiji's linguistic and cultural diversity. She underscored the deep connection between vernacular languages and a people's identity, culture, and heritage.

vernacular languages were closely linked to people’s identity, culture and heritage.

— Sera LockingtonHighlighting the cultural significance of vernacular languages.

The university is also focusing on the preservation of Fiji Hindi, particularly as it remains a spoken language among younger generations. Lockington pointed out that tertiary institutions bear a significant responsibility in ensuring the continuity of Fiji's languages, cultures, and traditions. As an example of this commitment, FNU offers a Diploma in Vanua Leadership program. This initiative, developed in partnership with Fiji's Great Council of Chiefs, mentors aspiring young leaders in traditional governance and cultural knowledge.

tertiary institutions have an important role in keeping Fiji’s languages, cultures and traditions alive.

— Sera LockingtonEmphasizing the role of universities in cultural preservation.

Dr. Kasanita Nayasi, an Assistant Professor and Chair of the Vernacular Week Committee, noted that the event provided a valuable platform for students to confidently use and celebrate their languages. She expressed confidence that these students, as future educators, professionals, leaders, and community members, would play a pivotal role in influencing and preserving these languages for generations to come.

the initiative provided students with a space to celebrate and use their languages with confidence.

— Dr Kasanita NayasiVernacular Week Committee Chair, commenting on the impact of the event on students.
About this summary

Originally published by FBC News in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized automatically by DistantNews, with a note on how the source frames the story. Not individually reviewed before publishing. How this works.

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