Ministry of Youth and Sports FIJI

Bula Vinaka to Our Followers!

Warm greetings from the Ministry of Youth and Sports!

We just wanted to give you a quick update. Due to some issues with accessing our previous page, we’ve created a new official account where you can stay up-to-date with all our latest events, programs, and initiatives.

We’d love for you to join us on this new journey by following us at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61567755231698&mibextid=LQQJ4d. This is where we’ll be sharing everything happening in our sports and youth communities across Fiji, and your support means so much to us.

Thank you for your understanding and for continuing to stand with us as we work together for the youth of Fiji.

Vinaka vakalevu,
Ministry of Youth and Sports

Ministry of Youth and Sports, Fiji
October 19, 2024

FIJI BATI DEMONSTRATE RESILIENCE DESPITE SETBACK AGAINST PNG KUMULS

Suva, Fiji – The Fiji Bati faced a challenging match this evening, succumbing to a 22-10 defeat by the Papua New Guinea Kumuls in the Pacific Rugby League Bowl Championship at HFC Bank Stadium. Despite the outcome, the team remains steadfast in their determination to learn from this experience and emerge stronger in future competitions.

Coach’s Reflections

Head Coach Waisake Kativerata acknowledged the anticipated difficulty of the match and emphasized the importance of deriving lessons from the loss. He stated, “We anticipated a tough encounter, and while the result wasn’t what we wanted, this experience will serve as a valuable learning moment for us. We will analyze the match, regroup, and make the necessary adjustments to come back even stronger.” (Fiji Times)

Captain’s Perspective

Team Captain Tui Kamikamica expressed his disappointment while highlighting the team’s resolve to improve. He remarked, “Losing at home is tough, especially in front of such an amazing crowd. But we have no doubt that we will come back stronger. This is just one step in our journey, and we will keep our focus and determination high as we prepare for future matches.” (NRL)

Ministry’s Support

The Ministry of Youth and Sports stands firmly behind our Bati boys, who have shown incredible resilience and perseverance both on and off the field. The support of the Fijian people, both here at home and abroad, plays a crucial role in motivating these players to continue striving for success. It’s in these moments of adversity that true champions are forged.

This moment also provides a powerful lesson for young Fijians across the country. As our youth look to the Fiji Bati as role models, it is important to remember that setbacks are a natural part of any journey toward success. The team’s ability to stay focused, learn from their loss, and keep pushing forward is a message that resonates far beyond the rugby field.

Message to the Youth

To the young people of Fiji, the Ministry encourages you to take inspiration from our team’s perseverance. Losses in life are inevitable, but with hard work, dedication, and the right mindset, they can become stepping stones to future victories. As the Fiji Bati regroup and prepare for their next challenge, we hope this moment reminds us all of the importance of resilience, unity, and unwavering optimism.

The Ministry of Youth and Sports reaffirms its commitment to supporting our national teams and encouraging the youth of Fiji to pursue their dreams in sports and beyond. We stand proud of our Fiji Bati and look forward to seeing them rise again in their next match.

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Date: October 18, 2024

Minister of Youth and Sports Encourages Vitogo Village Youth to Lead with Responsibility, Innovation, and Resilience

Vitogo, Lautoka – Today, the Honorable Minister of Youth and Sports delivered a powerful closing speech at the conclusion of a transformative three-day Youth Empowerment Training in Vitogo Village, Lautoka. The training, which brought together community members, experts, and youth, focused on tackling pressing issues such as drug abuse, mental health, financial literacy, sustainability, and the impact of digital technology on Fijian youth.

In his closing remarks, the Honorable Minister underscored the importance of addressing the growing concern of drug abuse in communities. The Minister highlighted the alarming practice of “bluetoothing,” wherein individuals inject themselves with methamphetamine—commonly referred to as “white drugs”—and subsequently extract a mixture of blood and drug residue to inject into others. This method not only facilitates the spread of HIV/AIDS but also poses severe health risks to all involved.

Fiji has experienced a significant rise in HIV/AIDS cases, with 552 new cases reported from January to June 2024—a 573% increase compared to 2017 (Fiji Village). Contributing factors include unprotected sexual behavior and the sharing of needles among drug users.

“The fight against drugs is a collective one,” he stated. “It starts with our young people making informed decisions and understanding the devastating consequences of drug misuse.”

The Minister also spoke about the evolving landscape of digitization, recognizing the role of young people as the driving force behind this change. However, he cautioned against the misuse of social media, emphasizing the negative effects that online behavior can have when used to harm others. “We need to shift our mindset,” the Minister said. “Young people must use digitization for personal and community development, not to tear each other down.”

In a bold move to promote economic sustainability, the Minister outlined the Ministry’s vision of supporting youth clubs across Fiji to establish cooperatives. He emphasized that such initiatives would ensure the longevity of youth organizations and provide future generations with pathways to success. The Minister reminded the youth, “We will not remain young or youthful forever. Once you pass your youthful age, your investment in establishing a cooperative will provide for you and your future generations.” He reiterated, “Our goal is to see every youth club in Fiji have its own cooperative, ensuring sustainability for the future.”

The Minister also emphasized the broader vision: one day, youth club cooperatives across Fiji will work together, trading and conducting business with one another. This collaboration will empower young people and transform the narrative around them. Instead of being seen as the target of societal issues, young people will become active contributors to the nation’s economic growth. By working together, these cooperatives will help create a new dynamic of youth-driven innovation and entrepreneurship, benefiting both their communities and the country as a whole.

During the event’s Talanoa session, youth and community members engaged in open dialogue with the Minister. Requests were made for the introduction of a “Matua” class for women in the Western Division, particularly in Nadi and Lautoka, to provide training opportunities for those without access to higher education. The Minister assured the community that he would raise the issue with relevant ministries to ensure the necessary pathways for women’s empowerment are developed.

In addition, the Minister encouraged church-based youth groups, such as the Mataniveitokani from the Methodist Church, as well as youth groups from other Christian denominations, to register under the Ministry of Youth and Sports. This recognition, he said, would allow them to access government resources and initiatives aimed at fostering youth development across the country.

The event concluded with the presentation of certificates to participants, marking the culmination of three days of learning, growth, and empowerment.

Minister of Youth and Sports Delivers Speech at Fiji’s Farmers Awards Night

Suva, Fiji — October 17, 2024

The Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways celebrated the remarkable achievements of Fiji’s agricultural sector during the Farmers Awards Night held at Central Cuisine in Suva. The event featured a speech delivered by the Minister of Youth and Sports on behalf of the Minister of Agriculture, honoring the hard work and innovation of farmers across the nation.

In his address, the Minister expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways for organizing the event, highlighting the critical role agriculture plays in Fiji’s economy and the livelihoods of its citizens. “The agriculture sector has always been the backbone of our nation, supporting employment, food security, and economic stability,” he stated.

The awards recognized the exceptional contributions of farmers and industry leaders who have demonstrated commitment and innovation in advancing the sector. The Minister praised the award recipients for their exemplary efforts in sustainable farming practices and resource management, stating, “Your dedication to excellence is an inspiration to all of us.”

Looking ahead, he emphasized the importance of sustainability and collective effort in continuing to uplift the agricultural sector. He thanked all stakeholders, development partners, and sponsors for their unwavering support, affirming that together, they can ensure a resilient future for agriculture in Fiji.

The event concluded with a call to celebrate the achievements of awardees and a shared commitment to advancing Fiji’s agricultural excellence.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Ministry of Youth and Sports Fiji Holds First Board Meeting of the Duke of Edinburgh International Awards Program for This Financial Year

Suva, Fiji – October 17, 2024

The Ministry of Youth and Sports, the National Award Operating Body for the Duke of Edinburgh International Awards (DEIA) Program in Fiji, held its first board meeting for the 2023-2024 financial year today. The meeting was attended by the board members and Mr. Joel Grant, the Regional Manager for the DEIA program in the Asia-Pacific region.

The DEIA board is led by Ratu Meli Nacuva, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Sports, who serves as the Chairperson. Other notable board members include:

Mr. Abhay Nana, Managing Director of Nands Group of Companies, President of Fiji Scouts Association – Member

Mr. Aniruhd Singh, Senior Lecturer, School of Law, University of Fiji – Member

Mrs. Jenny Seeto, Chair of the Board, Investment Fiji – Member

Mr. Timoci Bure, Director of Primary and Secondary Education, Ministry of Education – Member

During the meeting, the board focused on reviewing the overall progress of the DEIA program in Fiji. The primary objective was to evaluate the program's journey thus far and identify strategies to strengthen its effectiveness and outreach. Discussions also revolved around the future direction of the program, ensuring that it continues to empower young Fijians through opportunities for personal growth, skill development, and community service.

“We are committed to enhancing the Duke of Edinburgh International Awards program here in Fiji. The board's collaboration with Mr. Joel Grant and the regional office underscores our dedication to ensuring that young people across Fiji can benefit from this global initiative,” said Ratu Meli Nacuva, Chairperson of the Board.

The Duke of Edinburgh International Awards Program is a globally recognized initiative that encourages youth participation in non-formal education, providing opportunities for young people to develop valuable life skills, confidence, and resilience.

The Duke of Edinburgh International Awards Program operates in over 130 countries, including Fiji, where it provides a framework for young people aged 14 to 24 to challenge themselves in various areas of self-development, including physical recreation, skill-building, voluntary service, and adventurous journeys.

Title: Minister of Youth and Sports Welcomes Teams at Pacific Test Championship Event

Date: October 14, 2024

Suva, Fiji – The Ministry of Youth and Sports is delighted to announce the successful welcoming event for the Pacific Test Championship, held this afternoon at the Grand Pacific Hotel. The event brought together top rugby league teams from across the Pacific, showcasing the incredible talent and sportsmanship of our athletes.

The event was graced by the presence of the Samoan Female League Team, Tongan Female League Team, Fiji Bati, and the PNG Men's League Team. The atmosphere was electric as fans and supporters gathered to celebrate the spirit of rugby league.

Highlights of the Event:

1. Minister's Welcoming Speech: The Minister of Youth and Sports delivered an inspiring speech, emphasizing the significance of the Pacific Test Championship and the unity it brings among our Pacific nations. The Minister highlighted the achievements of our rugby league teams and the positive impact of sports on youth development.

2. Outstanding Teams: The Samoan and Tongan female teams, along with the Fiji Bati and PNG Men's League Team, were warmly welcomed. Their participation is a testament to the growing strength and popularity of rugby league in the Pacific.

3. Community Engagement: The event served as a platform for community engagement, with various activities and programs aimed at promoting youth involvement in sports. The Ministry of Youth and Sports is committed to fostering a supportive environment for our young athletes to thrive.

Key Achievements:

- Milestone Achievements: Recently, our teams have achieved significant milestones, such as reaching the semi-finals of the Rugby League World Cup in 2008, 2013, and 2017, which highlights the progress we have made. Notable players like Kevin Naiqama, our current captain, and Akuila Uate, the top try-scorer, have emerged as role models for our youth.

The Ministry of Youth and Sports extends its heartfelt gratitude to the Fiji National Rugby League for organizing this event, and to all the volunteers and supporters who have worked tirelessly behind the scenes. We also thank the participating teams for their commitment and enthusiasm, and our sponsors and partners for their invaluable support.

Closing Remarks:

We encourage everyone to support our teams with the same passion and energy that they bring to the field. Let us celebrate the spirit of rugby and the unity of our Pacific nations. Stay engaged with our future initiatives and events, as your support is crucial to our continued success.

Thank you for being part of this memorable event. We look forward to more excit

HON. SAUKURU CONGRATULATES PARTICIPANTS OF BASIC CHAINSAW AND PORTABLE SAWMILL OPERATOR TRAINING.

The Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Jese Saukuru, officiated at the closing and handing over of certificates for the Basic Chainsaw and Portable Sawmill Operator Training.

A total of 43 youths participated in the 2-week training program, with 41 males and 2 females, the youngest being 16 years old.

Hon. Saukuru thanked the participants for their interest in the program and urged parents to continue supporting their children, as they are the future leaders of today and tomorrow.

Assistant Commissioner of Police, Mr. Sakeo Ganivatu, also addressed the youth on the dangers of drug use and encouraged parents to be actively involved in their children's lives.

The Vodafone Fiji Bati team had the opportunity to join the Ministry in celebrating the graduation of Nacekoro, Yaroi and a member from Waivunia Village from their two-week forestry course.

The training, which started on September 30th and ended on October 11th, aimed to equip youths with valuable skills for their future endeavors. Congratulations to all the participants on their successful completion of the program.



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MINISTRY OFFICIALS INSPIRE STUDENTS AT RATU EMERI CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL ON WORLD CHILDREN AND TEACHERS DAY.

The students of Ratu Emeri Catholic Primary School experienced moments of excitement and joy as they celebrated World Children and Teachers Day yesterday in the presence of the Minister of Youth and Sports, Honorable Jese Saukuru, and Ministry officials.

The Ministry's Youth Officer in Ba, Mr. Kaminieli Matai Sadrata, delivered a message to the students, urging them to study hard and strive for a successful future. He emphasized that perfection is not attainable and encouraged students to make use of informal education opportunities, such as the Naleba and Naqere Youth Training Centers in the Northern Division.

Mr. Sadrata also called on parents to support their children, especially if they encounter challenges in formal education. He highlighted the significance of informal education and urged parents to bring their children to these centers for ongoing support. He expressed gratitude to the teachers for their dedication and sacrifice in leaving their families on Viti Levu to educate the students of Kubulau in Bua.

The Ministry's Monitoring and Evaluation Officer, Mr. William Tamani, echoed Mr. Sadrata's sentiments, emphasizing the crucial role parents play in nurturing their children's potential. He urged parents to support their children in achieving their goals for a brighter future and stressed the importance of parental involvement in guiding and encouraging children towards success.

Yesterday also marked an important milestone for the Ministry as the new framework, titled "CAST THE NET A NEW" or "BALATA VOU TALA NA LAWA," was launched at Ratu Emeri Catholic School. This framework demonstrates the Ministry's recommitment to youth development in Fiji and the Pacific.




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HON. SAUKURU CELEBRATES FIJI DAY WITH KUBULAU DISTRICT YOUTH.

The Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Jese Saukuru, spent his Fiji Day celebration in the interior of Bua, a two-hour ride from Nabouwalu to the District of Kubulau in Bua, after being invited by the Kubulau District Youth Council for the Fiji Day celebration.

While addressing the Fiji Day celebrations, Hon. Saukuru expressed his gratitude to the people of Kubulau for the warm traditional welcome accorded to him and his team during the Fiji Day Celebration.

He commended the district of Kubulau for their contributions to the nation's development over the past 54 years since gaining independence in 1970.

Hon. Saukuru acknowledged the efforts of previous governments in paving the way for Fiji's development and progress. He emphasized that the current coalition government, along with past administrations, have all played a role in shaping the nation's growth.

Reflecting on this year's Fiji Day theme, "TO HEAL AND HOPE," Minister Saukuru highlighted the challenges faced by the nation and the achievements made, including Fiji's success in sports at the international level.

Hon. Saukuru mentioned the government's commitment to establishing a Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The commission's efforts aim to provide healing, closure, and answers from the past, with the hope that future generations will not repeat the same mistakes and move forward as a united nation.

He reiterated the Ministry's dedication to youth and sports development, urging parents to support the youth of Kubulau in Bua. He also emphasized the importance of staying away from drugs and the impact of HIV/AIDS on the youth of the district.

Assistant Commissioner of Police, Internal Affairs and Professional Standards, Mr. Sakeo Ganivatu, also addressed the youth on the dangers of drug use and encouraged parents to be actively involved in their children's lives.

The celebration at Ratu Emeri Catholic Primary School ground marked a historic moment as the first Cabinet Minister to visit the interior of Bua in the District of Kubulau according to community members. His presence demonstrated the government's commitment to reaching out to all communities in Fiji.




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