The legacy and sacrifices of the Girmitiyas will be honoured through a series of nationwide events, cultural programs and digital activities as Fiji prepares to commemorate the 147th anniversary of the arrival of indentured labourers this month.
Multi-Ethnic Affairs Permanent Secretary Dr Vinesh Kumar stresses the contributions of the Girmitiyas helped shape modern Fiji through agriculture, business development, religion and the civil service.
He highlights this year’s commemorations will include satellite events, school competitions, cultural programs and digital livestreams to allow more people to take part in the celebrations.
He emphasizes due to ongoing economic challenges, including fuel costs, the Ministry has decided to bring many of the activities onto digital platforms while still holding smaller events nationwide.
Dr Kumar says the Ministry is working with the Ministry of Education to run competitions in schools, while three commemorative stamps will also be released in partnership with Post Fiji.
Dr Kumar says a youth-focused event will be held at University of Fiji on May 14th featuring debates, speeches and discussions on the contribution of the Girmitiyas to nation building.
He says a similar event will also be held in Labasa.
The main Girmit Day celebration will take place at the Fiji Museum on May 15th.
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He says performances will also be held and descendants of Girmitiyas in their 80s and 90s will be recognised for preserving the legacy of their ancestors.
Dr Kumar says one of the major highlights this year will be the sealing of a time capsule containing messages that will be opened after 50 years.
He says the commemorations will also include visits to historic Girmit sites including Dilkusha Home and the Nabou Kuti Mandir, which have historical links to the Girmit era.
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He adds that taking the celebrations to digital platforms will allow the message and legacy of Girmit to reach a wider audience across the country.
