Programme Fosters Cultural Exchange

In an effort to bridge the gap and promote peace, the Labasa Multicultural Centre organised a cultural exchange programme at Korotubu Village in the Macuata Province yesterday. Twelve Indo-Fijian women, who are participants at the centre’s programme, travelled 23 kilometres in a bus to form friendships with eight iTaukei women to learn about their culture and tradition.

Labasa Multicultural Centre administrator Prabha Naicker said the women learnt how to follow iTaukei protocols when entering a village by presenting a sevusevu. “Then they learnt how to bake pie, art and craft, prepare traditional iTaukei meals and fishing,” Mrs Naicker said.

“It was a one-day programme where they not only carry out activities, but get to interact to know more about each other’s culture.” “Such programmes are important because in Fiji we should know about each other’s culture and tradition so that we can learn to respect and maintain peace and harmony,” she said.

“Earlier this year we invited the women from this village to Labasa to learn Fijian culture and tradition as part of cultural exchange programme.

“Now it is their turn to share their knowledge so that when they return they can tell their family and friends what is the true Fijian and iTaukei culture.” Asenaca Kete, 43, who willingly accommodated the group in her house and being one of the participants, said she was delighted. “I feel so happy to share what our forefathers have passed on to us,” Mrs Kete said.

“Being a pastor’s wife I thank God for allowing me to share my love and make more friends.

“If we continue with such cultural exchange programmes I am sure there will be no room for discrimination and racism.”

Edited by Epineri Vula