Fiji Launches Tamil Teaching Program to Preserve Heritage and Strengthen Cultural Ties

Fiji has taken a significant step in promoting one of the world’s oldest classical languages with the official launch of the Tamil Teaching Program on November 27. This initiative highlights efforts to preserve the rich cultural heritage of Tamil and strengthen ties with the Tamil-speaking community in the region.

The program was inaugurated by the High Commissioner of India to Fiji, P. S. Karthigeyan, during the 93rd Then India Sanmarga Ikya Sangam (TISI Sangam) Convention held at Churchill Park in Lautoka. His participation emphasized the importance of the collaboration between the Indian and Fijian governments in promoting linguistic and cultural preservation.

Adding to the cultural significance of the event, students from the Indian Cultural Centre in Suva performed a vibrant Bharatnatyam dance, a classical art form rooted in Indian traditions. This performance underscored the deep cultural connections between India and Fiji while providing an enriching experience for attendees.

The Tamil Teaching Program is funded by the Government of India through its Ministry of External Affairs and is being implemented in partnership with Fiji’s Ministry of Education, the Fijian Government, and TISI Sangam, a prominent organization representing Fiji’s Tamil diaspora.

As part of the initiative, two Tamil language educators from India will be stationed at Sangam schools in Rakiraki and Labasa to lead the teaching efforts. These educators are expected to play a crucial role in imparting language skills and fostering a deeper understanding of Tamil culture among the students.

“This program reflects our shared commitment to preserving the Tamil heritage and fostering cross-cultural ties,” said Karthigeyan during the inauguration. His statement highlighted the program’s broader objective of reinforcing the enduring connection between India and Fiji’s Tamil diaspora.

By introducing this initiative, Fiji aims to not only preserve Tamil as a classical language but also strengthen the cultural identity of its Tamil-speaking community. The program is a testament to the ongoing collaboration between the two nations and their dedication to fostering mutual cultural enrichment.

This launch is anticipated to have a lasting impact, ensuring that Tamil continues to thrive as a linguistic and cultural treasure in Fiji, while also promoting broader engagement between the Tamil diaspora and their ancestral roots in India.