Permanent Secretary of Education, Heritage and Arts Dr Anjeela Jokhan says arts and cultural heritage remains one of the most important tools for economic empowerment and has the potential to create more job opportunities.

Dr Jokhan at the opening of the 2022 National Craft Exhibition yesterday said that for generations, arts and cultural heritage have provided an income stream for ordinary Fijians.

“The tourism sector has enhanced the widespread advocacy for our traditional art and culture, and this has also promoted culture and creative industry to the world,” she said.

She also urged women selling their products to never compromise on the quality of their products.

Ministry of Education, Heritage and Arts, Permanent Secretary Anjeela Jokhan during the Nausori craft exhibition opening on October 12, 2022. Photo: Ronald Kumar.

She also pleaded to relevant institutions present during the event on the need for practical and workable policies and their implementation to protect those who work in culture and heritage arts.

“This event demonstrates the great commitment of the Fijian Government and donor agencies to support cultural procedures, and our emerging artists and artisans in a way that helps strengthen and create a sustainable livelihood,” she said.

Nausori craft exhibition traditional section wedding set 1st prize winner Sanita Va on October 12, 2022.

The Fiji Arts Council director Maciusela Raitaukala said they were grateful to have the event back on track after a two year lapse because of COVID-19.

“More than 100 women from across the country are part of this event displaying their products and most of them are members of the Fiji Arts Council,” he said.

“It’s good that we are having it in conjunction with the Tebara Carnival, it’s a good time and opportunity for kids to come and enjoy the culture and art provided,” he said. Mr

From left: Tebara Carnival contestant Miss Pehnawa Shereen Lata, artist Rosie Mereki and Miss Pak & Save Photo: Ronald Kumar.

Raitaukala said this event was mainly for marketing the local craftwork products of women because this was one hurdle artisans were facing.

“This art exhibition not only provides a platform for women to market their products but also to sell them,” he said.

“We are working closely with the Ministry of Education and are also having talks with tertiary education providers in providing a pathway where we can further develop the skills of traditional arts.”

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