Government backs new centre for iTaukei, Hindi studies

The proposed centre for iTaukei and Hindi Studies will help preserve and strengthen the iTaukei and Hindi languages, says Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Viliame Gavoka.

Mr Gavoka was the chief guest at the ground-breaking ceremony for the University of Fiji’s new centre at its Saweni campus in Lautoka yesterday.

The centre is designed as a hub for cultural empowerment, linguistic research, teacher training and community outreach.

“This centre is not simply an academic initiative; it is a national project that will preserve and strengthen the iTaukei and Hindi languages, both foundational to our heritage,” Mr Gavoka said.

“It will advance research in culture, identity and history, ensuring future generations inherit knowledge that is both rigorous and authentic.

“It will train teachers, thinkers, storytellers, researchers and leaders who can champion our Indigenous and Indo-Fijian knowledge systems.

“It will provide a home where languages are not only taught but lived, felt and understood as tools of unity.”

Mr Gavoka said the ground-breaking was made possible through the coalition Government’s historic $1 million capital grant, the first of its kind for the university.

He said the support signalled trust, belief and shared conviction that Fiji’s development must be anchored in the strength of its people and their languages.

Mr Gavoka added that the centre represents a promise to children that their heritage will not fade but flourish, becoming a beacon of knowledge, unity and cultural pride for generations to come.

Vice-Chancellor Shaista Shameem said the building’s design symbolises Fiji’s cultures, heritage and shared future.

“The bure is on the left with its iTaukei language and culture, and the centre for Hindi studies is on the right with its own language and culture and a world in the middle where we meet,” she said.