Women in the country were reminded on Wednesday by the outgoing Indian High Commissioner to Fiji that there are Indian scholarships available for them.

High Commissioner Padmaja revealed this while addressing women from the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei in Nabua, who celebrated Women’s Equality Day and to farewell Ms Padmaja.

Women’s Equality Day commemorates the passage of the 19th Amendment to the United States of America Constitution, granting women the right to vote.

The amendment was first introduced in 1878.

Ms Padmaja said the Government of India offered a programme called the Indian Technical and Economic Co-operation (ITEC).

The programme offers skill training studies for technical jobs. It is fully funded.

“All expenses are paid by the Government of India including travel expenses, accommodation, food and tuition fees,” the High Commissioner said.

“As soon as the international flights resume, I advise those who are interested in the training skill studies to apply for the scholarship.

“Those who are interested in arts such as Indian dancing, music or yoga can also apply for the scholarship.

“In fact, in our cultural centres, the best kathak and bharatanatyam dancers are iTaukei girls.”

Leaving soon

Ms Padmaja, who has completed her term of service and is looking forward to her retirement, said her one year and four months stint in Fiji was something she would cherish forever.

“I will be living a life of my own and do things that I am passionate about, but I will definitely miss Fiji,” Ms Padmaja said.

“I will cherish my memories of being here with you all. I am fortunate that at the time of my retirement, I was given an opportunity to spend some time on this paradise.”

She appreciated and commended the work done by the Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei group in empowering women.

“I salute the work done by you to empower women. It is the work that speaks for itself,” she said.

The president of Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei, Adi Finau Tabakaucoro, while presenting her farewell speech, thanked Ms Padmaja for her support.

“We thank you for your spirit and positivity towards this organisation,” Adi Finau said.

She thanked India for their medical treatments provided to Fijians and gave well wishes to Ms Padmaja on her return.

“We wish you best of luck on your return and I hope you will take good memories with you of Fiji and Soqosoqo Vakamarama iTaukei,” Adi Finau said.

“Your country has been looking after Fijians who go for medical treatments to India and we pray for them.”

Adi Finau also acknowledged Ms Padmaja for recognising them as a group.

“She was the first diplomat who showed interest in our organisation and since then other diplomatic officers have shown an interest to help us as well. It is our culture to appreciate her for her support,” Adi Finau said.

Ms Padmaja also wished the women’s group well in its 100th anniversary preparation, which will be celebrated in 2024.

Edited by Naisa Koroi

Feedback: sheenal.charan@fijisun.com.fj