Fiji teachers urge parents to prioritize vernacular learning

The Fiji Teachers Association (FTA) is urging parents to place a higher priority on vernacular language learning, expressing concern that some families increasingly perceive these studies as an unnecessary burden. The association stresses that vernacular languages are crucial for preserving culture, identity, and social cohesion within Fiji's diverse society.

“

I know we live in a multi-cultural society, but I can guarantee that not a lot of people know how to speak a foreign language, not a lot of iTaukei speak Hindi, not a lot of Indo-Fijians speak iTaukei or Rotuman, and this keeps us in a box away from actual integration.

FTA General Secretary Paula Manumanunitoga believes that increased emphasis on language learning can foster stronger cultural integration among different ethnic groups. He noted that language barriers often lead to misunderstandings and social divisions. "Most parents think that vernacular is a burden, but put it this way: when we see people who don’t look like us, we tend to put up walls out of fear. That’s because we can’t communicate our thoughts, which is where language comes in," he explained.

The Fiji Teachers Union (FTU) has echoed these concerns, highlighting the vital role of vernacular studies in maintaining cultural identity. FTU General Secretary Muniappa Goundar stated that students are required to study a vernacular language and should view it as an opportunity rather than an obligation. "But as far as we know as for the policy, it is compulsory we need our children to do one Vernecular, either iTaukei that is VosaViti or Hindi, or Chinese, or Rotuman," he said.

“

Most parents think that vernacular is a burden, but put it this way: when we see people who don’t look like us, we tend to put up walls out of fear. That’s because we can’t communicate our thoughts, which is where language comes in.

Education stakeholders agree that vernacular learning is an important tool for safeguarding Fiji's rich cultural heritage. They believe it also promotes greater understanding and unity among future generations. The FTA's call comes amid a broader discussion about the balance between international languages and the preservation of local dialects and cultural heritage in Fiji.

“

But as far as we know as for the policy, it is compulsory we need our children to do one Vernecular, either iTaukei that is VosaViti or Hindi, or Chinese, or Rotuman.