Diwali celebration in style

SUSUI Village School on Vanuabalavu Island in the Lau Group celebrated Diwali in style.

The headteacher, Regina Setoki, who hails from Rotuma along with two teachers decided to celebrate Diwali despite COVID– 19 pandemic.

They had a meeting with parents to improvise on current clothing materials they have and be creative in dressing up their children in traditional Indian outfits.

The whole village was surprised to see the creativity of parents and guardians particularly the mothers of the remote primary school on Vanuabalavu Island commemorating Diwali with whatever little resources they had.

It turned out to be a successful event. According to Mrs Setoki they may be remotely located away from the hustle and bustle of urban living, but they teach their students on how to blend in well with fellow Fijians in view of our diverse communities.

This school may be small, but it has produced some successful men and women who have held high positions in Government, NGOs, security discipline forces, private sectors, successful business proprietors and even ordained church ministers.

The school was officially established in 1965 and started at the local church teaching only Class One students as other students from Class Two onwards have to travel 30 minutes by boat to Adi Maopa Primary School at Lomaloma Village.

It was not until 1966 when the colonial government built the existing primary school so students don’t have to travel to Lomaloma.

Students either go to Adi Maopa Secondary School for secondary education or come to Viti Levu to attend a boarding school if they scored the required marks.

Total roll for this year is 22 students with three teachers and one office staff. The school manager is selected during the school AGM.

Korotogo Andhra Sangam Primary Schoool in Sigatoka also celebrated Diwali and handwashing day on Friday, November 13.

Josese Vereti, director Hyperchem Sigatoka, was the chief guest for the occasion.

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” — ARISTOTLE

“There is no substitute for hard work.” – THOMAS EDISON

Picture: SUPPLIED Picture: SUPPLIED Picture: SUPPLIED Picture: SUPPLIED Picture: SUPPLIED Picture: SUPPLIED Diwali costume from students of Susui Village School in Vanuabalavu, Lau. The lights of Diwali are bringers of good health, long life and good luck. Below: An occasion to celebrate victory over darkness, and awareness over ignorance. An occasion to celebrate life. Students of Korotogo Andhra Sangam Primary School. Left: Adding a little sparkle to your feed. Diwali is about setting goals, not accumulating gold. Students of Susui Village School in their colourful Diwali attire.

Picture: SUPPLIED Picture: SUPPLIED Picture: SUPPLIED Picture: SUPPLIED Picture: SUPPLIED Picture: SUPPLIED Picture: SUPPLIED Teachers and students perform an Indian dance. Fire crackers to burn evil; sweets to sweeten success. First aid training at Susui Village School. Regina Setoki with some of her students. Learning environment. Teachers of Korotogo Andhra Sangam Primary School. Left: Diwali is all about celebrating life with the people you love.