Andhra Day celebrates founder's education legacy in Fiji

The vision and sacrifices of the late Alapati Tataiya, whose efforts laid the foundation for a network of Andhra schools across Fiji, were celebrated during Andhra Day in Lautoka today.

Assistant Minister for Commerce and Business Development Sachida Nand, who is also national president of the Dakshina India Andhra Sangam of Fiji, officiated at the celebration at Lautoka Andhra Sangam Primary School.

Addressing students, teachers, parents and invited guests, Mr Nand said Andhra Day was an opportunity to honour the organisation's founder and recognise his lasting contribution to education in Fiji.

He said the growth of Andhra institutions reflected Mr Tataiya's vision and the commitment of generations of supporters who had continued to strengthen the organisation.

Mr Nand described Andhra schools as more than places of learning, saying they also played an important role in preserving culture and instilling strong values in students.

He said the schools had helped produce confident and capable citizens who continued to contribute to Fiji's social and economic development.

Mr Nand said the Government recognised the importance of developing well-educated and community-minded citizens to support the country's future growth.

He said values such as hard work, integrity, service and respect, which are taught in Andhra schools, were essential to nation-building.

Mr Nand also highlighted the importance of mutual respect and understanding in fostering unity among Fiji's diverse communities.

During the celebration, new school signage was unveiled, which he described as a symbol of the community's continued investment in education and respect for its heritage.

He encouraged the school community to take pride in the new signage and preserve it as a lasting symbol of the school's history and progress.

Mr Nand urged students to work hard in their studies, respect their teachers and parents, support one another, cherish their heritage and strive to make a positive contribution to Fiji's future.