Shaheen Ali reminded Rakiraki Muslim Primary School students to be champions for the environment because  it ‘is what sustains us’.

The Permanent Secretary for Industry Trade and Tourism made the comments during the school’s annual prize-giving in Rakiraki yesterday.

“In fact, environment is what sustains us, the quality of our life essentially depends on our surroundings,” Mr Ali said.

“In addition, to protection of the environment, be proud of our country and its achievements – whether it is in the field of sports, like our Gold medal winning 7s team, or recently the achievements our Rugby League Team in the World Cup.

“Or Fiji’s achievement in other fields on the world stage. Our Prime Minister has been leading the world in climate-change talks and Fiji has been punching above its weight in many areas.”

As chief guest, Mr Ali presented the top awards to the students.

Mr Ali encouraged students to do five things to help our environment:

(i) Plant a tree – trees give life (absorb Carbon dioxide and give Oxygen);

(ii) Instead of driving, walk, ride a bike or take the bus;

(iii) Conserve electricity and water,

(iv) Stop using plastic bags, and,

(v) Stop littering – (keep Fiji Beautiful).

Email: ranobab@fijisun.com.fj