‘EVERY TREE WE PLANT TODAY IS A STEP TOWARDS SURVIVAL’

Suva Grammar School became the centre of a landmark event on Monday during the launch of the Ministry of Education’s Climate Change Awareness Week.

The event, themed ‘Adaptation Through Tree Planting for a Sustainable Future,’ aimed to ignite a sense of responsibility in Fiji’s youth towards their environment.

Assistant Minister for Education, Iliesa Vanawalu, opened the ceremony by emphasising that climate change is no longer just an environmental issue, but one of survival.

“Adaptation is not a choice; it is a necessity,” he said, urging students and teachers alike to lead by example through action and awareness.

The event underscored the role of trees in combating climate change.

Mr Vanawalu explained how every tree planted is a symbol of renewal, helping to restore ecosystems, provide oxygen, and protect against natural disasters.

“Through simple acts like tree planting, we are taking action today for the world of tomorrow,” he said.

The week’s activities are set to engage schools across Fiji in various projects, including tree planting, clean-up campaigns, debates, and science projects.

Assistant Minister for Education Iliesa Vanawalu (middle), with students and parents at the launch of the Ministry of Education Climate Change Awareness Week at Suva Grammar School in Suva, on April 7, 2025. Photo: Rariqi Turner

Mr Vanawalu also announced that 20 coastal secondary schools would pilot the planting of 4000 seedlings along Fiji’s shores, supported by the Ministries of Fisheries and Forestry, Climate Change, and Lands and Mineral Resources.

The event also featured speeches from community leaders.

Permanent Secretary for Climate Change and Environment, Sivendra Michael, highlighted the urgency of climate action, stressing that despite Fiji’s small contribution to global emissions, the Pacific faces the brunt of climate impacts, from cyclones to rising seas.

“Our communities are on the front lines, and every tree we plant today is a step towards survival,” he said.

Mr Michael also confirmed that the request made by the organising committee has been approved, which is the 4000 seedlings that were needed to be used for Climate Change campaign this year.

Students also echoed the importance of trees.

Elenoa Senibulu, one of the USP Early Childhood Education students, captured the essence of the event: “Trees are like the superheroes of our planet. They make our world a better place to live.”

The day concluded with a reminder from a senior officer for Curriculum Advisory services, Atonio Ramabuke, who said: “Today, we have no excuse” in the fight against climate change.

Feedback: rariqi.turner@fijisun.com.fj