Volume 16, No. 2 SEPTEMBER, 2011 Wansolwara An independent student newspaper and online publication Youth fund Report moots regional initiative to resolve lack of progress

with the opportunities to associations to address the to the formal curriculum and by PARIJATA GURDAYAL propose projects that have a various youth issues. involve working closely with THERE is a need for a regional strong community focus. “Specifi c projects could be partners in the community, youth fund to provide youths “The absence of available funded to improve female and such as local government and with the needed resources to resources is a major reason male access to higher levels of church groups, it noted. INSIGHT address their issues. for the lack of progress at the education or basic literacy, or An alternative was for the This was one of the recom- regional country level in ad- providing more educational projects to be proposed and FORESTS are vital for the mendations in the State of Pa- dressing youth issues,” it said. or livelihood opportunities run by youth-led associations security of Pacifi c Island cifi c Youth 2011: Opportuni- The report proposes a for young people with HIV & that involve school leavers. ties and Obstacles report that system for addressing this gap AIDS, or physical or mental “The creation of links be- nations. Is enough being was released by the Secretar- through a regional agency such disabilities,” it said. tween communities should be iat of the Pacifi c Community as the SPC to set up a regional To attain a stronger commu- an important focus to lift the done to protect it? (SPC) and the United Nations youth challenge fund. nity focus, the report recom- level of social trust with and Children’s Fund (UNICEF) The fund could call for mended the use of schools as last week. between communities rather The report calls for specifi c proposals from governments, community service learning than fund activities that are attention to providing youths non-governmental organisa- projects. limited to one community,” tions, churches and youth This would be closely tied the report said.

PROFILE KELLY Thomas loves the ocean. This affi nity has led to him to study marine science. Recently among friends, he has earned the tag of a defender of sharks. That’s because he will be the fi rst local to acquire a Masters in shark conservation. USP’s Development, Marketing, Communications & Alumni Offi ce PICTURE: Offi & Alumni Communications Marketing, Development, USP’s NEW BEGINNING: Solomon Islands Governor General Sir Frank Utu Ofagioro Kabui, who was installed as USP’s 18th chancelllor at the graduation ceremony last Friday, presents Shavindra Nath with his postgraduate diploma. First degree no longer enough: Chandra

confi dence families placed on USP to it was well-positioned to react to the by NANDNI VANDHANA produce quality graduates. future and that funding from donors THE two-fold increase in the number “It is not about getting a degree but increased by 25 per cent. of USP students who completed post getting a quality degree as USP gradu- He offered special gratitude to the graduate studies this year is a sign that ates are special,” said Chandra. Fiji Government, the university’s larg- the fi rst degree is no longer suffi cient. “You will be the strength of your est fi nancial contributor. This was the observation offered by family, as well as the community.” “Fiji has been a generous and hos- ROAD University of the South Pacifi c Vice On academic reforms, he said the pitable host and this has allowed the Chancellor Professor Rajesh Chandra necessary changes were being imple- university to grow,” said Chandra. in his graduation address on Friday. mented to increase the university’s Among plans for growth next year is SAFETY He said of the 800 graduands, 54 per credibility. the opening of a new halls of residence cent were graduating at the post gradu- “We aim to transform USP from a that will cater for 144 students. WHY does the carnage ate level. Last September, graduands at good university to the best,” he said. The university is also developing a on our roads continue to this level made up 23 per cent. “The academic transformation fourth campus in the Solomon Islands “This is a refl ection of the new knowl- and reforms are undertaken through and plans are underway to renovate the rise? A team of fi rst-year edge society where the fi rst degree is the Strategic Total Academic Review Kiribati campus. Chandra said these journalism students not enough anymore,” said Chandra. (STAR) and will be completed for im- works were essential in ensuring the He said enrollment at USP increased plementation in 2013.” university remains central to achieving by 10 per cent and was indicative of the investigates the issue. On USP’s fi nances, Chandra said high quality education. NEWS NEWS Family rejoices in INSIDE President promises sisters’ milestone System failure to ACADEMIC RULES 5 Tougher academic policies in 2012 better management blame for job woes WHITE GLOVES education attainment have expectations of cent in Samoa,” it said. Students mobilise for by PARIJATA GURDAYAL 6 The land management student, rums for students to raise issues basis,” said Veidreyaki. good future prospects but in many cases, The problem of being jobless persists by NEOMAI QALITA cleaner pastures who campigned on a Pacific Al- or ask questions to the executives His party beat the United THE lack of support mechanisms to secure they have been frustrated by their failed for 25-29 year old men in Kiribati, Samoa, REPORTS of the student body’s liance Party ticket , hopes to see in the committees,” he said. party with a clean sweep of all the DOUBLE SCOOP: The Inoke family employment after school contrbutes to the attempts to find suitable work,” it said. Marshall Islands and Solomon Islands, high unemployment rate among Pacific The report warned the situation was se- where between a quarter to more than half finances will be distributed every students in Laucala Campus are a “It’s our goal in making sure seats. No independent candidates by NANDNI VANDHANA TOLERANCE month, said the new president part of the decision making at the that money is not only well spent youth, says a recent report on the region’s rious and could lead to social unrest. the men in this age group are out of work. contested. IT was a proud moment for mum Kelina Bible misinterpreted of the University of the South student council level. but spent on things that will ben- youth. “If other conditions in a country are con- Samoan youths at Savaii and Upolu 7 A noticeable aspect of this Inoke, who travelled all the way from the on gay issue, says Pacific’s Laucala Campus student “Regardless of a students’ col- efit all the students and not only “It is usually beyond the consent of edu- ducive to unrest, such as poor governance, interviewed last December said more em- party is that the candidates hail Kingdom of Tonga to see her two daugh- cation providers to continue supporting Reverend body. our, race or gender, each student just a few.” a weak economy and a sudden economic ployment opportunities should be pro- from the different countries in ters graduate. their graduates once they have left school,” This was one of the commit- must work and move together as He was referring to the social or natural shock, the situation may turn vided. Unemployment was an issue raised the pacific. For Malieta and Seiloni Inoke, they said the report, The State of Pacific Youth out to be very different,” it said. by American Samoan youths between the USP PROFILE ments Ratu Poasa Veidreyaki one,” he said. events hosted by the various cul- were both “over the moon” as they smiled 2011: Opportunities and Obstacles Unemployment, in many countries, ages of 20- 24 years. These youths sug- Kelly Thomas, a made in his campaign speech He stressed the need for tural groups. “The party was founded by 10 to the flashing cameras of friends and “Young job seekers usually have to rely topped the list of young people’s concerns. gested attracting overseas investment, re- defender of sharks for the presidency, a day before transparency in terms of keeping “Not all students go to the these cultural groups so we made polling. family present to witness this moment of solely on their own limited networks to The report said a large proportion of Pa- tiring those who have completed 20 years students updated with how their Tara Koro or play sports or are sure that our candidates are from “Few things I hope to achieve a lifetime. find work.” cific male youths in the 20 - 29 age group of service for the government as ways of money was being spent. religious, so what we plan to do these different cultural groups.” ROAD SAFETY are restructuring and reforming, “I feel awesome because I am graduat- The report was prepared from research were neither working, nor studying. providing more jobs. “This will be achieved by is not focus all the funds to a Veidreyaki said. ing with my sister,” said an elated Malieta, The carnage on transparency and accountability,” findings by the Secretariat of the Pacific The issue is particularly serious in Kiri- The Tahitian youth consultation group 11 distributing monthly financial particular area but on a greater The new office holders are to the younger of the two sisters. Community and the United Nations Chil- our roads he said. bati, Marshall Islands and Samoa, where said when it came to employment oppor- reports and also having open fo- picture and not on an individual serve for two semesters. She graduated with a Bachelor in Com- dren’s Fund (UNICEF). about half or more of young men aged 20- tunities, it was about who you knew rather merce with Information Systems and It also identified the lack of opportuni- 24 years were not engaged in productive than what you knew. hopes to get a job related to the field. ties and resources as an obstacle to young activity. Youths also highlighted the need for ex- USPSA to raise Seniloli graduated with a Bachelor of graduates in making productive contribu- “The figures are 58 per cent of males perience. They said it was hard to secure REGULAR FEATURES Arts Degree majoring in Politics and Po- tions to their communities. aged between 20-24 years in Kiribati, 4 the first job and there was little support for awareness on role licing. “Young people with higher levels of per cent in Marshall Islands and 46 per starting a new business.

l by SAJNEEL ROHIT INSIGHT, Husband, p8 & 9: THERE is a need to raise awareness Emalus among students about the service role of Final year wife team the student body, says USPSA Laucala team journalism president Poasa Veidreyaki. students “There had been reports in the past graduate explore the that students walk straight into the Dep- wins moot by KALESI MELE forestry uty Vice Chancellors Office rather than by PRATISH RAJ issues of visiting their governing student bodies which are originally elected by the stu- A HUSBAND and wife THE University of the South Fiji and the Solomon Islands. dents themselves to help cater for their were among the 800-plus Pacific Emalus team is through needs,” he said. students who graduated at to the PAN Pacific Mooting l REGIONAL, p12: Water “I believe students need awareness the University of the South Competition this year. chores are a life-threatening about the importance of the USPSA,” Pacifiic’s graduation cer- This was secured after it won exercise for women in the said Ratu Poasa. He hopes to organise an emony on Friday. the moot competition two weeks Solomon Islands. Many of event to highlight the role of USPSA. Lauheilani Lui Young, ago at the Law and Culture them suffer the trauma of He said there were many plans in the a ginger farmer, said they Conference at USP’s Emalus Campus in Vanuatu. rape and harrassment si- pipeline and among them was the up- made education a priority grading of the Student Service Centre to because it would give them They competed against a team lently, a research has found. from USP Laucala, the Universi- solve the congestion problem, and vigor- more opportunities. ous lobbying for the sheltered path from ty of Auckland and the Univer- “I think it’s ideal if you l MEDIA, p13 : Poll finds the Bus Bay (opposite Cost U Less) to the sity of Otago. work and study at the same majority of Fiji’s citizens disa- Southern Cross Restaurant. The PAN Pacific Mooting time because academic Competition is a major annual gree with the censorship of achievements will help add the media. event featuring New Zealand to your income in the near universities and will be hosted NEW LEADERSIP: Pacific Alliance Party future,” said Young. by USP Emalus this October. l REVIEW, p14: “This really is to give me USP Laucala Moot participant members who took over the USPSA The compe- Students more options and some- Krishneel Gosai said despite Laucala office. President Poasa Veitayaki is tition started review thing to fall back on.” the lost, he gained a lot from the in the front row, second from the left. on Tuesday Young graduated with experience. films and night with n Picture: KALESI MELE a Bachelor of Commerce “The moot being decided by book. USP Lau- Degree. Young, who is from Supreme Court Judges, Jus- Naitasiri, met his wife while tice Daniel Fatiaki and Justice One-year term too short: Tuiloa at university. They have Spears made the competition two children. The couple realistic,” he said. fortunately time was not on our “We took into account that we Tuiloa thanked his team for The mooting competition by ELIKI DRUGUNALEVU said hard work and deter- side and before we knew it our had students with disabilities and their hard work. mination was the reason for is part of the Law and Culture time in office was over,” he said. since we are a recognised institu- He also acknowledged the help their success. Conference. It first started as l SPORTS, p16: THE one-year term for student “One of the things that we tion it is important for us to cater of their secretary, whom he said “I am very happy and a small exchange conference in Much remains questionable body executives is too short, said wanted to see, as we were plan- for the needs of ever students on was instrumental in getting them also relieved because I left 2008 between USP Emalus and former USP Student Association ning on it, was the installation of this campus,” he said. up to speed. University of Otago. about the selection of Fiji’s farming for about a year Laucala Campus President Tevita the sheltered walkways from the “Another thing was the instal- “In our first few weeks in (of- “The success of these con- ago to come and complete team, says veteran Tuiloa. main bus stop (opposite Cost-U- lation of new computers in our fice), we had trouble settling in ferences led the organisers to my degree,” he said. commentator Graham Eden. In an interview prior to hand- Less) to the labs and also at the labs for our students as you can because there was no proper broaden the conference and in ing over to the newly-elected upper gate to the library.” see and we are very happy with handover from the previous office Mrs Young said she was the 2010 the first of the Law and executives, Tuiloa admitted Of his team’s achievements, what we have done.” bearers,” he said. very happy and excited. Culture Conference was hosted the term in office was not long he listed the acquisition of new Changes in the finance proce- “It was like they just gave us “After this we head into by USP Emalus,” said the Con- work and possibly to pur- FOOD FOR THOUGHT enough to implement all the computers and the construction dures to allow cultural groups’ the key to the office and the pass- ANNUAL MOOT: Some of the mooters with Justice Daniel Fatiaki, right, at Emalus Campus ference Committee Chair Anita projects they wanted. of ramps to ease access for those better access to student funds word to the computers and that sue further studies,” she Jowitt. “We still had plans that we with physical disabilities as their was another achievement, he was it nothing else.” said. ...of the utmost wanted to see eventuate but un- main projects. said. importance (is) that we should all : Which party did you vote for in the recent USP elections and why? Introduce marine studies, says academic and know how to preserve it. As a result of the conference, “The sad truth is people throw feel and inculcate LANI LOATA ALAN FILOMENA by SHEENAL SHARMA “If people are aware, then they the school has been work- out things into the sea because among the MAIWAQA TUBUKOLO TAKINANA WAQA The sad truth is people and will be better responsible for ing closly with the Ministry of they think it is not their prob- THERE is a need to introduce the consequences of their action Education’s Curriculum De- lem,” he said. people throw out ‘circulate amongst marine studies early into the and will be prepared to take up velopment Unit (CDU) on the Veitayaki said whatever we do them what I would Q school curriculum, says aca- resource management activities proposal to introduce marine to the environment today will things into the sea demic Associate Professor Joeli to become agents for positive studies. influence how our environment call a sense of Veitayaki. change.” Veitayaki said the future of will service the future genera- ‘ because they think it Did not vote as there This, said the Head of USP’s compatriotism I voted for the Pacific I voted for the Pacific I voted for the Pacific The School of Marine Studies our oceans was largely depend- tions in the future. was false advertising by School of Marine Studies, will last year hosted the Internation- ent on the younger generation, “If we want to protect and is not their problem YOUR Alliance Party as it one of the party mem- Alliance Party as the United Party because I is a multiracial party candidate contending am more familiar with ensure the younger generation al Conference on International hence the need to ensure they preserve our marine species, - AD PATEL, founder of the bers and on top of that is well educated and informed Pacific Marine Educators Net- were knowledgable to make the we better act now rather than National Federation Party making it easier for for the presidents the candidates the elections area was about their marine resources work (IPMEN). right choices. never,” he said. all students. jam-packed. postion is my friend. contesting in the SAY election. 2 SEPTEMBER, 2011’ - Wansolwara Wansolwara - SEPTEMBER, 2011’ 3 EDITORIAL CAMPUS NEWS Secure our forests 64 back on scholarship by NANDNI VANDHANA A majority of these issued warnings of schol- not being wasted. politics and sociology, said would have been wasted,” students are fi rst-year arships being withdrawn. “The Solomon Islands he was relieved to be back said Tausima. It is unclear SIXTY-four Solomon students and failed to “They did not meet the government spent $67.9m on scholarship. whether the Solomon Pacifi c Island people face the risk of Islands students returned meet the requirements academic criteria that this year to educate stu- “I failed three of my four Islands government re- ZUBNAH KHAN to USP after their gov- stipulated by the scholar- warrant their continuation dents at USP alone,” he units and this is because I instated the scholarships Editor ernment reinstated their ship committee in the in the context for value for said. was sick,” he said. because students won the losing cultural heritage sites scholarships this semester. Solomons. money,” he said. “This is 75 per cent of Andrew Tausima, a appeal or because of a The University of the Solomon Islands Perma- He said many students the total scholarship fund fi rst- year student, was change in policy. South Pacifi c students nent Secretary for Educa- missed out on scholar- of $92.4m so you see why also relieved to have his After several follow-up ‘ had appealed against the tion Charles Viva said the ships, so those who have the decision was made.” scholarship reinstated. e-mails and phone calls to termination of their schol- students failed three of the privilege must perform Cameroon Para, a fi rst- “If I had not gotten my Viva, he declined to com- HE abundance of trees ment to locals and increas- Islands and the living organisms causes tension between them. mal research scale whereas the arships. their four units and were well to ensure money is year student majoring in scholarship back, my year ment on the matter. felled every year for mon- ing the overall cashfl ow in an in the streams and the rivers The Solomon Star News re- nature reserves are protected Tetary gain is surprisingly economy, the rate at which it is are harmed causing a decrease ports that from the 233 coun- where no person can conduct insane, especially in this infor- pursued does more harm than in the source of living for the tries surveyed (Pacifi c Island’ any activity on the site. There Students mation age when many more are good. population. Countries included) between are 13 forest reserves and fi ve University atuned to environment issues Unsustainable logging, in The fact that there is still an 2000 and 2010, more than 13 nature reserves altogether. to explore like climate change. some cases illegal, is an increas- increasing amount of logging million hectares of forests each But are the efforts enough raises Unsustainable logging has ing threat to Pacifi c ecosystems in the Pacifi c Islands is a great year were converted for use to provide a better and secure been linked to many environ- and communities. concern as there was once a time in agriculture, or lost through new Pacifi c future for the generations to ment woes and is a major con- The Pacifi c Island people face when the Pacifi c Island coun- natural causes. come? Does it answer the ques- academic tributory factor toward climate the risk of losing cultural herit- tries such as Fiji and Samoa So the question arises as to tion as to what we have to offer Worlds change. age sites as well as their daily were covered with forests but what are the Pacifi c countries Unfortunately, many Pacifi c means of livelihood including they are now facing drastic de- doing to conserve and protect them? by BIUTOKA KACIMAIWAI policies Island nations with lustrious food, water, building materials, forestation and soil erosion. the natural forests? Sadly though, many in the Pa- forests are contributing to the medicine and other important Looking at the political as- Fiji Forestry, for instance, has cifi c Islands feel that economic THE University of the by DINGLE MULEKOPA crisis because their mechanisms valuables. pects, locals are engaging in dis- two types of conservation, which growth is the way to a better South Pacifi c will soon are inadequate to protect their Soil erosion poses a threat to putes with the government over are the forest and the nature future and lose sight of the introduce a generic course, STUDENTS of the Uni- forests from exploitation. the people in the Pacifi c. the land as many of the areas are reserves. bigger picture that a protected ‘UU204:Pacifi c Worlds’. versity of the South Pacifi c Although logging has its ben- This waste pollutes the natu- known to be cultural sites and The forest reserves allow environment is essential to a The course covers four must attend 60 per cent of efi ts, such as providing employ- ral water system of the Pacifi c cutting down trees in these areas forest activities but on a mini- secure future. broad themes that basi- their tutorials or fail their cally cover the history and course. culture of Oceania. This is part of the revised Empty Director for Oceania academic policies to come Eyewitness Centre for Arts, Culture into effect next year. T a l a n o a promise and Pacifi c Studies Dr Tutorials cover face to Vilisoni Hereniko pre- face, distance fl exible learn- THE students have been promised a ing and satellite tutorials. lot of times by USP that they are going to sented the course at the Anti-cooking Oceania Centre on August The USP Senate Report make a water shed. said tthe academic hon- 4. Hereniko said that policy It should be constructed from the Bus RECORD CROWDS: Undergraduate Sherita Sharma talks to curious students at the Journalism Programme booth during the esty policy and procedures, the new course is to help Bay to the Southern Cross Restaurant as University of the South Pacifi c Open Day in August tutorial attendance and I BELIEVE that life nowadays is a strug- it is normally the main point of entry. Pacifi c students lean more standardisation of grades gle and campus life is not a breeze. We students are still awiting for that about their identity. policy will be applied by all The University does not make it any promise to be fulfi lled. The presentation also faculties. easier for students who are living in the highlighted that placing USP rates open day a record success All written work by campus hall. ASNEEL KUMAR less emphasis on Pacifi c students is to be submit- by Cooking is not allowed which forces stu- Suva studies could lead to cul- ZHIYAD KAHN “There were more VIPs attending students. ted through the turnitin dents to buy food daily. this year compared with last year; The Development, Marketing ture loss. MORE than 10,000 people at- program, via moodle and Outside food is very expensive and to Exam “Pacifi c societies and there were many more students and and Communications offi ce said should account for a score add on it is also unhealthy. tended the University of the South schools participating; the displays that the broadcast gave the chance culture, in terms of this of 20 per cent and above. The University should approve the cook- trips Pacifi c’s Open Day, which for the were done very well; the opening for other campuses to see activities cluster, is always putting fi rst time was televised live across In light of the report, ing on campus as this would be less costly THIS is my fi nal year (in USP) and I ceremony went very well and the in Laucala campus. culture and people in the the region. standardisation of grades for students and this would help them would like to discuss the issue of trav- cultural programs throughout the The Pacifi c cultures were also forefront of what we do,” Vice Chancellor Professor will be rewarded equally fi nancially. elling to exam sites. day were wonderful and enriching,” celebrated with dance and music Hereniko said. Rajesh Chandra said it was likely and fairly, regardless of arts This should be catered for by the he said in an e-mail addressed to taking centre stage after the tours the most successful open day, with or science programs. PAULINE ARADHNA university as this often is a burden on The course co-ordina- the USP community. An extensive marketing campaign the numbers up in most aspects The new academic Suva students as some of us are fi nancially tors are Dr Kauvaka, from A total of 62 schools took part was embarked upon for this year’s compared to previous years. system requires students limp and can’t afford it. the University of Hawaii, in the event with close to 6952 Open Day. to work harder in order to This basically refers to the exams and Jackie Ete, from the pass. University of Wellington. Toilet held at Khatri Hall. conditions SUNNY DEO Suva Top hip-hop dancers visit USP Late allowances I WOULD like to urge the USPSA-Lau- cala Campus to please maintain proper Mobiles in condition of the toilets as toilets play an the library by FARANISESE RATU important role in our lives. anger scholars THE use of mobile phones should be Sometimes when we enter the wash- TWO members from the renowned hip hop by MINNIE EDMANLEY ship recipients on August 2 room and the condition is like entering a allowed in the library when there’s an dance group “Philippians All Star” performed that their fees and remaining rubbish dump. emergency. at the University of the South Pacifi c earlier this allowances would be dealt NI-Vanuatu students study- To put more fl avor to this there aren’t It could be likely that students may month. with as soon as the govern- ing in Fiji have only received any toilet paper available and we all know miss out on important notices such as Lema Diaz, 32 and Vince Medoza, 23 showed ment approved the VT96mil- half of their scholarship al- that we are uncomfortable in carrying toi- death in the family, because we never the USP students their expressive dance moves lion (FJ$1.94m) supplemen- lowance. let paper. never know what might happen in to- which amazed the crowd. tary budget. The $2,500 that the ma- We pay students fees and we would be day’s world. Their team has taken part and been winners Chairman of the Nation- Picture: WANSOLWARA STAFF jority of received is to help grateful if proper services are provided. of a number of international dance competi- al Education Committee them through the fi rst two MEN AT WORK: Painters at work outside the second fl oor of a USP building. They tions such as the World Hip Hop Champion- (NEC), Les John Napuati months of the second semes- MANISH KUMAR AKSHAY KUMAR wear no safety gear to harness or protect them in case of an accident. Yet the signs ship. A few students were brave enough to chal- said the “shortfall was a ter. Suva Suva before them read: ‘Wear Safety Belt’, ‘Safety is everyone’s responsibility’. lenge the performers and enjoy themselves. result of the former NEC The students were told last “I didn’t know what to do. I just got pushed decision”. month by scholarship offi - in by them and then when the music started, He said he did not “wish to cials that the rest of their al- I knew I had to do something, so I just let the venture into” its details. Editor: Zubnah Khan Student reporters: Allen Kaboa, Pratish Raj, Ropate Wansolwara is the student training newspaper publication of lowance would be paid after music control my movements and I did enjoy The students said most of Valemei, Neomai Qalita, Glen Vavaitamana, Arieta the University of the South Pacifi c’s Journalism Programme. two months. Deputy Editor: Zhiyad Khan myself,” says Brandon Hazelman a student ma- them had paid for their ac- Vakasukawaqa, Mervin Singh, Vilisite Tamani, Maseikula It is printed and distributed throughout Fiji by Fiji Sun. Copies Several scholarship hold- Chief Sub-Editor: Koila Valemei joring in Economics and Law. commodation and textbooks are also distributed to USP’s other 11 regional campuses, and ers, who spoke on the condi- Niumataiwalu, Lusia Lagilevu, Dingle Mulekopa, Sarah soon all issues will be available in pdf format on a revamped They were hosted by Saltwater Productions and were relying on their Deputy Sub-Editor: Nandni Vandhana tion of anonymity, said no Vamarasi, Farisha Ahmed, Sheenal Sharma, Biukoto Kaci- Wansolwara Online. of the Events Management, Film and Media in- meagre balance to get them date was given on when they Chief Photographer: Kalesi Mele maiwai, Fred Osifelo, Zafi ya Shameem, Magalie Tinga, dustry who aim to produce and organize events through the two months. would receive the funds, al- CONTACT US with newstips or advertising: of world class caliber. Lucy Kapp, one of the Yvette D’ Unienville, Sherita Sharma, Farah Ratu, Parijata though they asked for a clear Saltwater Productions is aiming to raise schoalrship recipients, hopes Business Team: Sarah Vamarasi (co-ordinator), Arnold Gurdayal, Sajneel Rohit, Jasvin Lala, Halitesh Datt indication. They said they E-mail: [email protected] awareness on creative arts with young people in her remaining scholarship Phone contacts: 3232-685/3232-186/3232-185 also received their allowanc- Chanel, Lusia Lagilevu, Kalesi Mele and Fred Osifelo Fiji. This attempt is to make people to under- money will be enough to last Sub-Editors/Layout Artists: Zubnah Khan, Koila Valemei, es late, about two months stand and appreciate what creative art is in her. into the fi rst semester. They Kalesi Mele, Lusia Lagilevu, Nandni Vandhana, Sherita forms of dance like hip hop. Diaz and Medoza “It would be best if the Special contributors: Ranoba Baoa, Eliki LETTERS for Talanoa Section received their money in the Sharma, Farisha Ahmed, Sarah Vamarasi, Zhiyad Khan, spent a week in Suva and took time to give les- people responsible could Drugunalevu fi rst week of August. Yvette D’ Unienville, Minnie Edmanley, Zafi ya Shameem. Snail Mail: Wansolwara, School of Language, Arts and Media, sons to interested youths. come over to Fiji and give An email from the Van- Senior Lecturer: Dr Marc Edge University of the South Pacifi c, Private Mail Bag, Laucala Bay. us a reasonable explanation uatu Ministry of Education Teaching Assistant: Irene Manueli E-mail: [email protected] HIP-HOP STARS: Lema Diaz, left, and also see how life is like was sent to the 66 scholar- and Vince Mendoza in Fiji” she said. 4 SEPTEMBER, 2011 - Wansolwara Wansolwara - SEPTEMBER, 2011 5 CAMPUS NEWS CAMPUS NEWS School earns elite Drodrolagi to reapply membership by SHEENAL SHARMA Interest group seeks university affiliation despite setback SCHOOL of Tourism and Hospitality Management by KALESI MELE raised was “As stated in your email, we proved,” Tuiloa said. semester. was recently awarded that the all agree that we all have human The student body by-laws state “We have been told that the Associate membership of FAILURE to adhere to procedures movement rights and that personal opinions that any interest group seeking af- matter is up for consideration in THE-ICE The International cost the Drodrolagi Movement lacked should not be forced on others,” filiation with the University would the second semester of 2011, and Centre of Excellence in (DroMo) their affiliation with the academic Tuiloa said in the letter. need endorsements from at least we are assured there will be a fair Tourism and Hospitality University of the South Pacific perspective In response Mr Tuiloa voiced 10 cultural leaders, one of the and positive resolution of this is- considering Education. Student Association – Laucala the concerns of the council stat- crucial aspects DroMo did not sue at that time,” Prasad said. Campus. the Univer- Head of School Professor ing, “all students have rights and gain. He hopes that through this (af- David Harrison said THE- DroMo is a student group that sity was an no one is more special than the “ We find at the University filiation), member’s rights would ICE is a new programme advocates for the rights of those academic other.” that some interest groups are be better addressed. funded by the Australian with diverse sexual orientation institution Tuiloa said DroMo also failed dominated by one or two cultural “Justice and human rights for Government. and gender identity. PRASAD and that it to present their agenda on time. groups, because the money that “The element of status In a letter to DroMo president was against “ The council did not approve we have is for all students and not those with diverse sex, sexual about being a member of Kris Prasad dated April 14 , Mr moral because they had brought their just some, therefore we need the orientation and gender identity THE-ICE is what we are do- Tuiloa indicated the concerns that values. The letter was in response agenda into the meeting and not endorsement from these cultural is certainly our prime concern,” ing is worthwhile,” he said. were raised by the council, one of to an email received from Mr 14 days prior. Members of the leaders,” Tuiloa said. he said. Picture: KALESI MELE Harrison said members Prasad concerning the rights of “We continue to grow and WALKING THE TALK: Tourism tutor Apisalome Movono leads students in the White Glove Movement. which stating, the group should council need to be well informed Meanwhile, Prasad said the of THE-ICE gain access to be an association and not a move- the movement members as stated before they make their decisions movement hopes to gain af- develop as we work together,” marketing and other facili- ment. Amongst other concerns in the letter. and therefore it was not ap- filiation with the university this Prasad said. ties, as well as a chance to advertise their programmes internationally. He said this commemo- ration will help the people FNU wins Nature’s custodians to know that the School of Tourism and Hospitality Europa Management is striving Tourism students lead clean-up campaign to promote tourism in the region by working with by Shield FARISHA AHMED Lomani is a word that describes members spent two hours collect- Pacifika initiative which includes international organisations. care, love and stewardship in the ing rubbish and plastic bottles adopting the USP foreshore from by KOILA VALEMEI & ROPATE VALEMEI EVERY Friday, a group of stu- “This membership shows Fijian language, a word strong around the campus. Muanikau road to Marine Studies that we have been bench- dent volunteers armed with white in meaning and will. Apisalome As a result sixty by 50 kilo- Lower Campus. FIJI National University (FNU) came out win- gloves and plastic bags clean up marked,” said Harrison. ners in the second annual Inter-University Movono, the campaign organiser grams bags of landfill bound “We are working on the Student/internship within and around USP. and tutor, said the project was to trash and a total of 87 bottles pontoon project which will be debate, narrowly beating out University of Fiji Called the ‘White Glove Coordinator Lorissa Hazel- and also taking out the best debater award. raise awareness. was collected which reflects the sponsored by the Holiday Inn,” man said THE-ICE was Movement’, the initiative is the “This is an awareness process amount of trash generated by said Public Relations Officer for Funded and organised by the European Un- brainchild of Lomani Pacifika very beneficial, especially ion, British High Commission and the French where we hope to carry out clean- USP staff and students (excluding TAHSA Sefanaia Navuda. in terms of marketing Initiative, a campaign formed by up campaigns in our environment the cleaning done by the labor- More than 40 volunteers were Embassy, the Europa Shield event is quickly the Tourism Students Associa- because it was the ideal becoming an academic must-see. surroundings.” ers). part of the campaign, with a international medium to tion. It has emerged with the aim White Glove Movement con- With all the bottles collected, a hope that the public will join Head of the EU’s Delegation to the Pacific’s to promote cultural and environ- promote the University of Political, Trade, and Media Section, Adam ducted its first weekly campaign pontoon will be built in October in to promoting stewardship the South Pacific’s tourism mental sustainability. on 29th July, 2011 where the to formally launch the Lomani towards the environment. Janssen said the debates were part of the EU’s programme. efforts to train future leaders in the art of rhetoric. “We are here to give you training and advice Pacific’s acceptance on the art of rhetoric so you can stand up in front of your peers and take full advantage of the stage that we have provided for you,” said Janssen. overwhelms comedy duo European Union Media team representative Lice Movono said the topics for debate were decided after consultation with development partners working in the relevant fields. Organizers had sole responsibility for the selection of all competition statements. “Most of the topics being debated on were topics that needed more awareness in the re- gion, such as climate change, woman’s role in society, and regional integration,” said Movo- no. Picture supplied by: EU Delegation to the Pacific USP fielded two teams. They were eliminated by LUSIA LAGILEVU DEBATE CHAMPS: Fiji National University’s winning team Indrani Krishna (Best Debater), Navneet Narayan and at the semi finals. Shanistika Shivani, far right, with their Dean for the Faculty of Humanities Dr Eci Nabalarua

New campus quarters Accept homosexuals, includes kitchenette church minister urges by MARLENA MAERZ PACIFIC HUMOUR: Laughing Samoans Tofiga Fepulea’i, left, and Eteuati Ete at the STUDENTS living in USP’s new singles quar- Oceania Centre USP’s Laucala Campus. n Picture: MASEIKULA NIUMATAIWALU by KALESI MELE and hence every man must be treated ship and enter into another equally. He said in Genesis 19, the relationship than that would be judged ters are allowed to cook for the first time. The new 10th hall of residence is equipped by GLEN VAVAITAMANA want to do” said Tofiga. HOMOSEXUALS can enter God’s king- destruction of Sodom was attributed to as unacceptable,” he said. Tofiga emphasised the importance of dom, says Reverend Akuila Yabaki of homosexual acts. He said there were those who were with kitchenettes to allow students to cook. THE Laughing Samoans’ are in awe of choosing the right friends. the Citizens Constitutional Forum. “The Sodom story focuses on born that way and have not changed This is a first for the singles quarters. Prior the reception they receive from all Pacific “You may have 5000 friends on “God is creator and has created dif- homosexual acts. Its judgment is upon their sexuality since growing up. to this, cooking was only permitted for married islanders Facebook but you need to pick your real ferences. That is the life they chose to the homosexual rape of divine He adds that the Bible (Romans quarters. “It is amazing to see how no mat- friends,” he said. “Pick those who will live and we must accept them as they messengers, and its larger judgment 1:26-27) directs that homosexual lust “The new hall is designed as an apartement ter where we go in the Pacific, we are support you all the way. are,” he said. appears to be against social injustice was understood as the consequence of style complex,” said Dorothy Browne, manager claimed by the people as one of them,” “My parents wanted me to be a lawyer “The Kingdom of God is where God is and in idolatry. of the Halls of Residence. said Eteuati Ete. or a doctor, but I always wanted to be in in charge of affairs and the values that hospitality to strangers as revealed in “Such homosexual acts were For each unit or apartment, eight students “There is no better feeling for a Pacific the entertainment business.” are associated with it are in Matthew 5 Ezekiel 16: 49-50,” said Yabaki. performed by heterosexual persons are accommodated and share the facilities, Islander.” It was one of the highlights of He said the Ete brothers were instru- and 6.” He said the gist of his stand is for the who freely chose to act contrary to their including a kitchen, a common room and a the job, he said. mental in e in order to showcase his He was responding last week to acceptance of homosexuals. own natural inclinations,” he said. bathroom with a washing-machine. Ete was speaking at the exclusive uni- natural talent. queries on his paper ‘Same Sex Couple: “Rejection would mean a violation of Yabaki said people with diverse “The students love it that they are able to versity event with his fellow comedian The Laughing Samoans were part of A Story of Love’, which he presented at God’s creative intent,” he said. sexual orientation be given a chance to cook“ said Browne. Tofiga Fepulea’i. the ‘The Pacific Performing Arts Inspire the first public forum on homophobia He expects opposition, largely based be heard. The need for a kitchen in the singles quarters They were well received at a packed Series’, which was organised by Oceania in May at USP. on the issue of procreation, but he is “The issue is sensitive and contro- has always been high on the students’ agenda. Oceania Centre where they shared a few Centre director, Igelese Ete who is the Yabaki was asked at the forum what confident in his beliefs. versial but the authority is to listen to However, Browne doubts kitchen facilities anecdotes on their lives, their careers brother of Eteuati Ete. the Bible preached on homosexuals. He “To achieve human fulfillment, all those in the relationship and to judge will be provided in the other halls in the fore- and how comedy felt natural for them. After the session, the duo entertained replied that the kingdom of heaven was these values can be sought and found in people s they stand, that there is no seeable future. not an area where man could pass judg- “It does not feel like a job. You cannot the crowd with material from their both sexual (orientations).” discrimination but acceptance,” he “Those halls were never built with a kitchen ment. He said God gave everyone life call it a job if you are doing what you ‘Chock-A-Block’ routine. “If these people are in that relation- said. in mind,” she said. 6 SEPTEMBER, 2011 - Wansolwara Wansolwara - SEPTEMBER, 2011 7 FORESTS: A conservation challenge for Pacific people Solomon’s forestry: Is it too late? Islanders blame greed and by ZUBNAH KHAN & JASVIN LALA logging for loss of livelihood ERAKI Jino, the central role of people in the more they come, the more “But it is a challenge to come by ZUBNAH KHAN & JASVIN LALA Islands, moving further on to the isolated Solomons High the sustainable management, the stock of our forests decline up with other sources of growth lands. The people living in Vaghena, one of Commissioner to conservation and development fast,” he said. Logging brings to really fi ll that gap,” he added. the isolated lands earmarked for logging, Australia believes of the world’s forests. about the threat of losing the Apart from unsustainable RRESPONSIBLE forestry actions have are crying foul about the ongoing logging logging is a great Forests also play a vital role natural forests of the Solomon logging another issue that been seen to be the cause of corrup- on their lands as they witness the effects on Bthreat to the country. in maintaining a stable global Islands within the next decade. plagues the logging industry is tion within the industry in the Solomon I their natural, and heritage sites. “We have a real concern... climate and environment. The latest fi gures released the practice of illegal logging. Islands. Francis Ho, another Solomon Islander about the logging in this coun- Commercial logging fi rst by the Monthly Economic Bradley Tovosia, the newly Martin Kafoa is a Solomon Islander who from the province of Isabella, says “all the try because it covers about 60 started in the Solomon Bulletin from the Central Bank appointed Solomon Islands comes from the province of Malaita. tress in Solomons is depleting because of per cent of the country’s GDP,” Islands about 30 years ago show Forestry Minister, says that He believes many of the problems of for- the operations and all the promises made to he said. with the Government- illegal logging is of concern estry lies with the middlemen. owners of forests are not fulfi lled”. Timber has become the main owned land to the in the country and it will take “A lot of problem(s) face(d) by Solomon “As soon as they complete the operations exporting product in Solomon customary land him sometime to under- Island citizens whose resources were used is Islands with logging earning which largely stand the issues involving the middle person who negotiates between they leave with what they have harvested, restrict new especially their aim to get money and then Marovo - logged out and idle about 70 per cent of the total includes illegal logging. the Asian logging people, resource owners export earning contributing about 87 He also said the lack and land owners,” he says. they leave all the mess behind”. to ten per cent for the govern- per cent investors coming into the of understanding “Most of the time, money was not used Logging has also depleted their stable food ment. of the among landowner properly and was not distributed out to source, breadfruit, he says. Solomon Islands is known to entire sector because the more they groups about the people who owned the resources at home, “Before there were plenty; we would go to be an archipelagic state which land Forestry Acts and so the middleman is always the one who fi lls the forest and get it but now they are gone,” lies in the South West Pacifi c in the come, the more the stock of the country’s code of up his pockets with the money earned from says Ho. Lilita Waleanisia, another Solomon Ocean. country. logging practice was logging.” Islander from the Western Province, Male- With an estimated popula- Cus- ‘our forests decline fast worrying. “The government in one way or another is male, says earning money is considered to be tion of about 539,000 which tomary “There are com- trying to stop logging operations”. the most important factor in forestry. is still ever-increasing today, land logging plaints from the land- “They could ban it but that could be the “Many people are seeing logging as means more of the economy is vastly was greatly owners with the compa- biggest question as since independence, of earning quick income so they allow logging dependent on logging for a infl uenced and nies who sometimes create Solomon Islands’ biggest revenue has been companies to do logging on islands regard- better future for the country. taken over by the problems themselves and through logging,” he adds. less of the impacts it will have on the people Solomon Islanders have long foreign company loggers an think they own the land and A teak plantation in Kohigo Island Logging is largely carried out in the West- and the environment in the years to come,” depended on the forests for with the number increasing as increase what’s on the land. ern and the Isabel provinces in the Solomon she said. food, medicine, building ma- years go by. in logging exports. “Sometimes people say one terials as well as other various Denton Rarawa, the Gov- Denton Rarawa says that the thing and do the other. materials needed for their very ernor of the Solomon Islands government needs to give the “That’s exactly what’s hap- survival. Central Bank, says that the forest industry some attention.’pened to this country, espe- The Solomon Islands forest- Government should seriously “Fortunately other sectors cially people who deal with ry collected close to 70 million look at the number of invest- are coming up like, the miner- loggers,” said Tovosia. Euro in export earnings, which ments coming into the logging als sector,” he said. “Reforestation programme equates to 18 per cent of total sector to combat the issue of “Gold ridge has started should work well for Solomon government revenue. increased logging activities in production and we are seeing Islands,” he added. This year is the International the country. some impact in terms of export The future of forestry in the Year of Forests and the theme “I think it is probably impor- receipts so that would help to Solomon Islands now depends is, Forests for People. tant to restrict new investors mitigate the gap that will be left on the contribution by both the Solomon Island’s Cloud Forest The concept is to celebrate coming into the sector because by logging. Government and the locals. Pictures: SPC n Pictures:

FUTURE GENERATIONS: What do we leave behind for them? GREEN GOLD: The Colo-i-Suva Forestry nursery is one of Fiji’s largest plant nurseries. Beyond the million journey New policy and conservation by SAJNEEL ROHIT ...... decided the campaign, efforts safeguard forests AST experience has led Fiji to which was initially signifi cantly reduce logging and scheduled to end last by SAJNEEL ROHIT & HALITESH DATT Viti Levu and three are in Vanua Levu. Pto cushion forestry practices April, continue indefi - On the other hand, forest reserves allow develop- with conservation campaigns that nitely. ment to a minimum. They usually serve as areas for ensure its green wealth is protected. The campaign is information gathering and includes the Savura Water ORESTRY is the art and science of tree Part of the conservation efforts is multi-faceted as ad- Catchment in Wailoku, Suva. There are 13 forest resources, including plantations and natural the Department of Forests’s ‘Plant a dresses other issues that KUBUABOLA reserves in Fiji with 11 on Viti Levu and two in Vanua stands. Million Trees’ campaign. impact national, regional and interna- F Levu. The forestry department’s Rafaele Raboilaku The challenge of forestry is to create systems that Deputy Conservator of Forests Ratu tional levels. says Fiji’s policies to safeguard its forests are ad- are socially accepted while sustaining the resources Tomasi Kubuabola said the depart- These issues include climate vanced compared to other island nations. that might be affected. Fiji has one of the biggest ment was fortunate to exceed the change, deforestation, soil erosion, The Senior Scientifi c Offi cer says on a scale of 1 to forestry industries in the Pacifi c Islands, consist- target of planting one million trees. carbon emissions, 10 (10 being the optimum), Fiji stands at 8. ing of about 45 per cent of its land. 815,000 “By December 10th last year we fl ood mitigation “We have identifi ed major species under threat hectares is forested whereby most of the had planted one million ten thou- and clean and we are trying to study and propagate the species land is owned by the mataqalis (native sand trees and as of today we have water sup- and distribute it to natives to reforest,” he says. landowners). The United Nations planted one million seven hundred ply. ...gone are those “Studies and restoration of genes of fl owers and General Assembly declared 2011 as and twenty two thousand and thirty “Al- species like santulm yasi has been successfully done days, now people the International Year of Forests trees,” said Ratu Kubuabola. though so far.” to raise awareness on sustainable “When speaking of forestry, most the concentrate on Programs like REDD+ also contribute to global ef- management, conservation and people picture logging at the back of impor- ‘conservation, sustainability forts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, strengthen sustainable development of all their minds but gone are those days, tance the socio-economic status of its forest resource own- and prosperity types of forests. Fiji is very suffi cient now people concentrate on conserva- of trees ers and protect its forest ecosystems. in solid wood products but imports tion, sustainability and prosperity has in- basically for The REDD+ program works towards Reducing its paper products and its most impor- basically for the future.” creased due to Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation. tant forestry export is plantation-grown He said most of the trees were alarming climate Fiji is the fi rst Pacifi c country to adopt REDD+ woodchips. In terms of forest conservation, Fiji is planted in the west and majority of change issues, people still as policy and its participatory development process advanced compared to other Pacifi c Island countries. tend to value forest for economic ’ seeks input from all relevant stakeholders. The policy them were coconut trees. Some teak University Book Centre It has 18 forest reserves which are sub-divided into Printing Services, Stationery, Laminating, Binding, Scanning, Novels, Text Books, (tropical hardwood) trees were also reasons rather than social,” said Ratu provides a national framework for implementation to nature reserves and forest reserves. Laucala Campus, Suva, Fiji. planted. The aim of the campaign is Kubuabola. interested REDD project developers. Bags, T-shirts, Sports Wear, Sports Gear, Umbrellas, Toners, Printers, Laptops and Nature reserves are places where no one is allowed designed to ensure future generations He added Fiji has spent millions Fiji is also one of the few countries which uses Ph: (679) 323 2500, 323 2405 Fax: (679) 323 1547 to conduct any form of development activity as it is many more... continue to enjoy an economically of dollars in conserving forest and palm wood of old palm trees. It has extensive co- A One Stop Shop For All Your Student Needs. Email: [email protected] strictly allocated for forest conservation. and environmentally safe Fiji. continues to get international and conut palm plantations and more than 30 years of Fiji has fi ve of these reserves, of which two are in It was so successful that it was regional aids. experience in processing. 8 SEPTEMBER, 2011 - Wansolwara Wansolwara - SEPTEMBER, 2011 9 PROFILE NEWS A defender of sharks West roads accident-prone by MERVIN SINGH tors for fi sh,” he said. by VILISITE TAMANI Satakala said the areas were labelled ‘black fatality was mainly caused by bad driver deaths. This was the lowest annual road According to www.ohio.org spot areas’ because they were considered to attitude. death toll in the past 22 years. The positive in Australia, lobster fi sheries are SIGATOKA, Nadi and Lautoka have been be “accident-prone areas.” “The West has often recorded the highest change, said Mr Satakala, was the result of a EAUTIFUL is not a threatened because the declining identifi ed as ‘black-spot’ areas, because In 2007, there were 59 fatal casualties, of numbers in terms of fatality on the roads, successful road safety awareness campaign. word I would use to shark population cannot control of the high frequncy of accidents on their which 11 occurred in Lautoka, eight in Nadi and this is mainly due to the attitude of “The low road toll in 2009 was mainly describe sharks. But for lobsters eating octopii. B roads. and six in Sigatoka. These made up 43 per drivers,” he said. due to aggressive campaigns conducted Kelly Brown, it’s the only word he The Pew Charitable Trust and Land Transport Authority of Fiji (LTA) cent of the total road death toll. “Many West drivers are repeat traffi c of- throughout Fiji and particularly in the would use for the creatures he is the Coral Reef Alliance are also statistics records that 52 people died in road In 2008, 14 road deaths were from Nadi fenders and the high incidents of accidents West,” he said. so passionate about. helping Kelly monitor Fiji’s black accidents last year, of which 12 occurred in and seven each from Lautoka and Sigatoka. on their roads is a refl ection of their driver He hopes campaigns will continue to Brown is the fi rst USP student tip and white tip reef sharks. Lautoka, and six each in Sigatoka and Nadi. The total fatalities on Fiji’s roads was 66 attitude.” arrest the road death toll and ensure the to pursue a Masters in Science, The research, the fi rst most General Manager Road Safety Timoci that year. Mr Satakala said the high road Meanwhile, 2009 recorded 47 road public knows. majoring in shark conservation. comprehensive study of its kind, The frequency of shark attacks will be conducted mainly in Vanua in Fiji does not deter Brown one Levu’s surrounding waters. bit. As in most endeavours of this Speeding the main cause of deaths Fatal road accidents He is determined to complete a importance, government sup- proper study of sharks in Fiji. port is critical to monitor shark Districts 2007 ‘08 ‘09 ‘10 ‘11 by VILISITE TAMANI & PRATISH RAJ Brown’s passion for shark numbers and species and to put Suva 3 6 4 2 1 conservation began when he was in place the correct and proper SPEEDING continues to be a major Nasinu 2 8 1 4 4 very young. He always had a love legislation to protect sharks. factor for road crashes in Fiji. Nausori 2 3 1 2 2 for the sea. The Marine Department is also Statistics provided by the land Tailevu 3 2 3 2 - After completing his under- working with Kelly because the transport Authority(LTA) show that Lami 2 4 - 2 - graduate studies in Marine Sci- sharks are an important part of each year, speeding is the cause of Navua 4 2 - 3 2 ence, Brown was undecided about the tourism industry in the form the most number of road fatalities. Sigatoka 6 7 6 6 2 what to research for his Masters. of shark feeding operators and As of August 29, speeding has Nadi 9 14 6 6 7 It was a shark dive with friends current exports are not being claimed 16 out of a total of 30 Lautoka 11 7 6 12 2 that got him interested. monitored. deaths. Ba 6 3 4 4 3 “During the shark feeding in “Right now shark fi n exports are Last year a massive 78 percent of Tavua - 1 2 1 3 Beqa I couldn’t believe how awe- tax free (and) the marine depart- road deaths were caused by speed- Rakiraki 4 1 2 2 - some they are” he said. He said ment wants the industry moni- ing which accounts for 41 out of 52 Labasa 2 5 3 3 - sharks were fast becoming endan- tored to ensure the sharks are not deaths. Seaqaqa 3 1 3 - - gered from overfi shing, largely exploited,” said Kelly. The authority has taken on initia- Savusavu - 2 - 1 - because of their valuable fi ns. He said the Great White, which Taveuni - - 1 1 - CONSERVATION: Kelly Thomas works to protect the ocean’s majestic sharks tives so that the general public be He hopes he will be able to con- is the most famous of all sharks, better aware of road issues. Serua - - 5 1 - tribute to the global fi ght against does not visit Fiji. “Speeding is the (highest) cause of Lau - - 1 - - shark fi ning. drown. “The fi ns don’t even have But now Thomas’ grant has capture the habits of this awesome “New Zealand scientists tagged accidents on our roads, and at the Wainibuka - - - 1 - A cruel and gruesome way of a taste or any proven medical been approved. creature. a Great White and tracked it close moment, there are speeding, drink Koro - - - 1 - getting the valuable shark fi ns properties, they are simply used as His research, which is a fi rst for According to Thomas, sharks to the Yasawas but it then moved driving and seatbelt campaigns go- Rotuma 2 - - - - which sell for up to US$200 a kilo. a status symbol” said Brown. Fiji, will focus on sharks’ densi- are more than just hunters who away,” he said. ing on, all at the same time to edu- Total 59 66 47 52 30 The practice involves capturing And like so many species, it ties, habitats and nurseries. eat anything and everything. So the next time you go on cate the general public about road sharks that have been caught in seems the shark is going down the He said the only literature on “They are an important part of Facebook, add Shark Defenders as safety issues,” said general manager the long lines, then simply slicing same unfortunate road; Fiji sharks was written in the the marine ecosystem and act as to your friends list so that we can road safety, Timoci Satakala. off the fi ns and then throwing unted to the point of extinction 1970s. police to ensure that fi sherman help Kelly in his fi ght to save these Meanwhile some motorists are the sharks back into the water to and all in the name of status. He said his study will really don’t compete with other preda- awesome creatures. unaware of the importance of taking safety measures when on the road, Change moreover the penalties associated with it. USP student, Ravnil Prasad said, attitude, “I was unaware of these harsh penal- Family joins cancer ties”. “I have once been booked $80 for JAYWALKING: Spot fi nes have been introduced to discourage jaywalking. says LTA over speeding and thought that that campaign after loss was it,” he said by MAISEKULA NIUMATAIWALU Section 97-99 of the Land Trans- port Act states that penalties for over Prosecutor calls for fi ne increase PEOPLE with a tendency to by PARIJATA GURDAYAL speeding ranges from a minimum of jaywalk must stop and realise $500 or 3 months imprisonment or imprisonment. These penalties speeding, the speed of the vehi- AT an age when most toddlers are run- the years has developed systems to stand by PRATISH RAJ it is dangerous and illegal, says $2000 fi ne or 12 months imprison- are implemented by consider- cle is the major evidence’. ning around and enjoying their child- by every family with kids suffering from ment. ing the ratio of the speed limit Inspector Raisuni said it be- Timoci Satakala of the Land hood, Daksha Diya Narayan bid farewell cancer and they ensure that support is FINES for speeding should Offences which lead to death or in- exceeded. comes very diffi cult for offi cers Transport Authority. to her family and friends after bravely provided to the kids and families in all be increased to deter motor- juries have harsher penalties ranging Harsher penalties are listed to determine the exact speed of Satakala said 29 have died in battling cancer for 13 months. terms,” said Narayan. ists, says Divisional Prosecu- from a minimum fi ne of $5,000 or 5 in section 97, 98 and 99 of the a vehicle on impact and that is road accidents this year and of “She was two years and eight months Support came in the form of tion Offi cer (Southern), Isikeli years imprisonment to a maximum Land Transport Act 1998 for the major challenge they face old when she died,” said her father, Vijay counseling, social services, recreational Raisuni. these, three were jaywalkers. fi ne of $20,000 or up to 14 years speeding offences leading to while presenting the matter in Narayan. and education support for other siblings, He said he believes this LTA has introduced a spot imprisonment. death or injuries. court. The cancer was detected when she was parental networks, and seminars for would motivate drivers not to fi ne of $10 for anyone caught Mr Satakala said due to the many These penalties range from “We also rely on eye witness- about 19 months old. caretakers and family members, social exceed the speed limit. jaywalking. The penalty is the awareness campaigns they have a minimum penalty of $5,000 es to describe the scene of the “All of a sudden we noticed symptoms events, retreats, parent’s room in the At present, fi nes for speed- been conducting, they will now start fi ne or 5 years imprisonment to accident to provide evidence second phase of a joint cam- in November 2009 and after the initial hospital amongst other support services. ing ranges from a fi xed penalty to come down hard on offending a maximum of $20,000 fi ne or for our case,” he said. paign with Fiji Police to educate diagnosis in Suva, we were able to quickly “We still get follow up calls from the of $50 to $120 with driver’s drivers. 14 years imprisonment. He added that eye witnesses road users on proper pedestrian move her to a children’s hospital in hospital on how we are settling down with demerit points of up to three, “Demerit point regulations are Raisuni also raised that an- were not always co-operative. Sydney for further diagnosis,” he said. our loss but here in Fiji, our health system according to the Land Trans- safety behaviour. also going to be enforced in order other challenge for his men was “Some witnesses don’t want The heartbreaking confi rmation came currently does not have most of these port (Fees and Penalties) Regu- “The walking behaviour in Fiji to stop drivers from over speed- the collection of evidence at an to get involved and don’t show in mid-December 2009 and thereafter support services,” he said. lations 2000. is such that we think that it’s ing. Once a driver incurs 9 demerit accident site. up for cases. We have very lim- began the painful journey. Narayan was all praise for the The maximum penalties normal,” said Satakala, the gen- points, their license is automatically “Providing strong evidence is ited resources to work with in She went through aggressive pediatric team at the Colonial War under the regulations ranges suspended,” said Satakala. the most important thing in a terms of providing evidence.” eral manager for road safety. chemotherapy and radiation treatment Memorial Hospital’s Children’s Ward. He from a fi ne of $500 or three Other causes of road deaths in Fiji traffi c case,” he said. He said traffi c cameras in “We need to change the walk- in Sydney. Daksha fought all odds and said despite their limited resources, they months imprisonment to a include hit and run accidents, care- “In accidents resulting from accident-areas may be helpful. ing behaviour and mindsets of showed signs that she had actually won were welcoming. PICTURE: Fiji Cancer Society fi ne of $1,000 or 12 months less driving, improper overtaking, people in this country. It’s not the battle. “Daksha’s charm and her resilient COMMUNITY SUPPORT: WOWS have done “Even her medical team was excited character won their hearts in a matter of much to raise awareness on cancer. easy but it can be done.” about her recovery but suddenly all hopes days,” he said. He said they were also very INSET: Daksha and her mother, Sadhna, on The initiative has drawn diminished after I returned to Sydney,” grateful for the support of their families one of their strolls mixed reactions from the public. he recalled. and friends. Bring my daddy back: Ira Jovilisi Waqa, a fi rst year “In the ninth month of her treatment, He said such support was crucial for Bachelor of Arts student, said the aggressive tumor remerged and left families who are experiencing such support they can get as possible.” by ARIETA VAKASUKAWAQA “My children deserve to have a father be- “I would always try my very best to spend this was a good initiative and the medical team with little option but to hardship. Narayan said there was a need Narayan said his family have been cause it really hurts to see them growing up time with them even though I have a busy that the campaign had made him recommend palliative care and so in for better networking between the greatly helped by the moral support of “GOD, please bring back my Daddy.” without a dad and he was a good man. schedule,” said the widow. more appreciative of laws that October 2010, my wife Sadhna and I hospitals, the Fiji Cancer Society, and their family and friends. “He was coming back from a family func- “Every night when my two daughters are made a very strong decision to return most importantly, the volunteers. These are the words five-year-old Ira had the people’s wellbeing at Their support network extends to the PICTURE: Vijay Narayan tion when two cars hit him that led to a asleep, I would always wonder if something home to Fiji with her (Daksha) to reunite “It can be as simple as somebody Tae Kami Foundation. Khan says in her prayer every day. heart regardless of how frustrat- It was the early morning of Boxing Day severe brain hemorrhage which later cost happens to me,who would be able to look with her sister and grandmother.” volunteering to spend time with the He said after their daughter’s death, him his life.” after my daughters? ing it might be. “Caring and supporting for someone children and engaging them in arts and they decided they would support the last year when Ira and her 10-year-old According to the Global Status sister Larisha lost their father, Aminisitai “According to the police, he died in the “If it wasn’t for my sister,I would be rent- suffering from cancer is a very painful craft while the stressed out parents can cancer campaigns. Kami Foundation. Report compiled in 2009, road Waqasaqa, in a horrifying road accident in early morning of Boxing Day between ing which is difficult for me to handle,”she experience and in our case it was even take a nap or shower for instance,” said “Our Daksha share and care attitude Narayan was also one of the nominees 8am to 9am at the Colonial War Memorial said. accidents are the ninth major more diffi cult as we were away from home Narayan. of the Walk On Walk Strong (WOWS)- Nasole, Nasinu. always gave us this message: ‘Please Papa (CWM) hospital.” She urged road users to be very vigilant cause of death in the world and and we could only console each other to “Already they will be faced with the and Mummy, care for not only yours but Shave it or Save it campaign. Their mother, Nazia Khan said the death Miss Khan said her late husband was the when using the road. the leading cause of death in remain strong,” he said. shock of cancer and on top of that there others as well,” he said. His appeal raised $2,500 for the Fiji of her husband would always haunt her forever. sole breadwinner and since his death, life “I advise you the pain of losing a loved youth between the ages of 10 to “At the Children’s Hospital at is the issue of fi nancial support. Parents The couple have since joined the Tae Cancer Society WOWS Fund for Children. has been very difficult. one in a road accident is heart-breaking,” Westmead in Sydney, the hospital over during such diffi cult times need as much “The pain and sorrow of losing the man I 24. loved is unbearable,” she said. Her sister has been her pillar of support. she said. 10 SEPTEMBER, 2011 - Wansolwara Wansolwara - SEPTEMBER, 2011 11 REGIONAL MEDIA MSG appoints Forau to secretariat Mobile by MAGALIE TINGAL Forau worked with the Regional leaders’ bi-annual summit. Fiji citizens want Assistance Mission to Solomon The events, said the commu- THE Solomon Islands’ Peter Islands (RAMSI) and also served nique, would give MSG leaders phones to Forau was appointed the new as the deputy secretary general the opportunity to reaffi rm their Director General of the MSG of the Pacifi c Islands Forum commitment towards self-de- Secretariat last week. Secretariat for fi ve years. termination and independence advance This was announced in a com- Forau replaces Papua New for the Kanak people. independent press munique after the special meet- Guinea’s Rima Ravusiro, whose The MSG member countries ing of the Melanesian Spearhead agriculture contract expired on July 9, 2011. also signed the MSG Framework by ZHIYAD KHAN cent believe the media’s perform- The Lowy report also registered a culture. Group in Nadi. The communique also Treaty on the Protection of Tra- ance since the 2006 coup had not strong approval rating for Commo- Meanwhile, the permanent Forau holds a Masters Degree confi rmed that the inaugural ditional Knowledge and Expres- NINETY-fi ve per cent of the changed. dore Bainimarama. secretary of information Sharon by KALESI MELE in Development Assistance from Melanesia Games would be held sion of Culture. respondents in a recent survey Also, an overwhelming 95 per About 66 per cent were happy Smith- Johns said the poll dem- the Australian National Univer- in New Caledonia in 2013. This will protect the inalien- say a media free from censorship cent of the respondents support the with his performance, saying “he ostarted the people’s support for Picture: MINISTRY OF INFORMATION MINISTRY Picture: THE use of mobile phones sity (ANU) It was suggested that the able right of indigenous peoples is important to them. right to vote in a free election, the was doing a good job”. A similar the government. to relay agricultural Prior to his appointment, event coincide with the MSG of Melanesia, it said. MELANESIAN BROTHERHOOD: Solomon Islands Foreign Affairs According to the Lowy Insti- right to vote in national elections number said they believe Fiji is “The citizens of Fiji approve of messages could be a step Minister Peter Shanel greets Tutugoro of the FLNKS tute report on Fiji, majority of the and the right to a fair trial. heading in the right direction. the Prime Minister and the Gov- forward to making 1,032 adults polled believe in the As for the military’s role in gov- Some 83 per cent of the people ernment by a huge margin. So if need for an independent media. ernance, the results were mixed. believed Fiji should be left alone to our own people think we’re doing agriculture part of The survey also found that 43 per Some 31 per cent of the respond- sort out its return to democracy, a good job and that’s all that mat- communities. Lift cent of the respondents found that ents strongly approved of the role and sanctions against the country ters,” she said. Riten Chand highlighted the media’s performance since the played by the military while 37 per should be lifted. “The Bainimarama Government this at the regional sanctions, 2006 coup had improved. cent partly approved and 31 per In terms of the new constitu- has never wavered from its road- training workshop on Best Water chores ‘risky’ These respondents said it had cent disapproved tion, 83 per cent said it would lead map towards parliamentary de- Media practices to pro- become either a little more reliable But, 46 per cent said the military to a better democracy in Fiji while mocracy and this is clearly shown mote Agricuture and Rural Reports by MINNIE EDMANLEY poll on Fiji or a lot more reliable and trustwor- should not play a permanent role 70 per cent strongly agreed that through the results of the report Development in Nadi ear- ...if we refuse, we can be beaten or raped. thy. Abou 24 per cent found the in politics, while 24 per cent felt it would end racial divisions and and the support of the nation,” she lier this year. CARTNG water to their homes is a media less reliable, while 31 per otherwise. inequalities and end Fiji’s coup added. “Wherever mobile dangerous and life-threatening chore We have no other place to go, so we don’t finds coverage is available, you for may Solomon Island women, re- by ZHIYAD KHAN can get information across veals a report by Amnesty Interna- complain and just keep quiet... Record to farmers,” he said. tional. Women are raped, harrassed AN overwhelming majority dis- Fiji TV partnership boosts course Chand won the agree with Australia’s sanctions and sexually abused in their efforts to Agriculture and Rural ‘ against Fiji, according to the low ranks collect water, it said. Development and Youth recent Lowy Institue Fiji poll. The long distance between their in the Information Society The poll was based on a face- (ARDYIS) essay competi- homes and the water sources makes to-face survey of 1,032 adults for press tion last year. their daily journey long and danger- ’ who were randomly selected He said mobile access ous. Maria, a 38-year-old woman from the major urban and freedom would greatly help com- from Honiara, said the water pipe was peri-urban areas of Viti Levu by JASVIN LALA mercial farmers. very far from her home and so her and interviewed between August 19-21. According to the “Mobiles have the morning walks to collect water was al- PRESS freedom worldwide highest potential and poll, 81 per cent said the is at its lowest in more ways fi lled with fear. Australian government should farmers can get vital infor- “I always dread walking in the than a decade, according mation that is supposed to ‘lift all sanctions and re-estab- to 2011 ratings released by morning because some of the men be disseminated to them.” lish normal relations with Fiji’. the US-based organisation, “Farmers can then plant in the settlement will be up drinking Only 13 per cent said the Freedom House. crops or vegetables that from the night before and more often Australian government should Less than one in six than not they will turn their attention ‘keep existing travel sanctions’ people live in a country are in demand and have to me and harass me,” she told Am- and a tiny 5 per cent said it with a press that is consid- the potential of meeting should ‘impose more sanctions the export market,” said nesty International. Another abuse ered free, it said. against Fiji.’ Chand. victim is a 21-year-old unemployed “We are particularly The respondents’ views on troubled this year by de- He said there was a need woman in the Kobito settlement. She Fiji’s regional relations were clines in young or faltering to make agriculture said young girls like her were always also gauged. democracies like Mexico, compulsory in schools. worried about being attacked by men. The poll found that although Hungary, and Thailand,” “Some schools don’t “My friends and I are always wor- the Fiji Government had said Freedom House even teach agriculture,” ried that we will be punched and worked hard on its relation- executive director David said Chand. He highlight- ships with fellow Melanesian raped by the drunk men,” she said. Kramer. ed negative stereotypes countries (Papua New Guinea, “If we refuse we can be beaten or “A country where jour- associated with agricul- Solomon Islands and Vanuatu), nalists cannot report freely FILM ACTION: Journalism students Lusia Lagilevu, left, and Marlena Maerz, second right, produce their ture. raped. We have no other place to go “the Fiji people were less enthu- without fear of interfer- documentary with the guidance of a Fiji TV cameraman. “ We need to get rid of so we don’t complain and just keep siastic about the value of these Picture: KALESI MELE ence, by the government or this attitude, this stere- quiet about it. We are already in over- relationships to Fiji”. other actors, has little hope Magalie Tingal, another stu- Professor Rajesh Chandra said the by MARIA VULA otype where nobody wants crowded homes living with relatives. Instead, the respondents held of achieving or maintaining dent, said she found learning from opportunity to co-teach the jour- to be a farmer,” he said. If we cause trouble we can be kicked the Pacifi c Islands Forum in true democracy.” THE hands-on learning environ- Professor Robert Hooper to be very nalism television course with Fiji higher regard. About 79 per cent “We need to get agricul- out,” she said. HEALTH RISK: Women and children in a Honiara slum use a dirty stream to bathe and wash The Asia-Pacifi c region ment at Fiji Television Limited is a rewarding. TV was an important contribution disapproved of Fiji’s suspension major highlight for USP’s journal- ture focused on younger clothes Picture: AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL REPORT saw a ‘modest decline’ in Professor Hooper is from the Uni- toward improving communications from the Forum. the Freedom House rat- ism students. versity of California in San Diego. people.” through the media. Also, about 66 per cent of ings, as Cambodia, Fiji, “As a class, we have had hands- His work with the television course Chand’s winning essay Acute water shortage in slum settlements those polled believe the Meth- India, and Vanuatu were on exercises on how to operate the is funded by the United States of Fiji TV’s manager training Mer- was titled ‘The Use of ICTs odist Church and other religious camera and to conduct interviews in ana Kitione said it would benefi t to Solve Information Pov- CLEAN water and proper holds do not have a regular water. Contaminated streams, constantly faced by the people of given downgrades. America’s State Department. organisations should not be the fi rst three weeks,” said second- students in the theory and practi- erty and the Reluctance of sanitation are scarce in the slum water supply and are forced to wells and river are used by 20 the community. In their visits Ratings are derived At the formalising of the arrange- involved in politics. Only 14 per year journalism student Yvette cal aspects of television journalism Farmers to Commercialise settlements of Honiara, says the rely on other water sources. per cent of the households. In to the Green Valley community, from three categories of ment between USP and Fiji TV cent of the respondents said the D’Unienville. Amnesty International’s Septem- Water shortages are fre- many of the small communi- Amnesty International found constraints on reporting, earlier this year, Vice Chancellor upon completion of their studies. in the Fiji Islands’. church and other religious or- ber 2011 report. quent and so the people rely ties families use stream and residents drawing green, dirty namely, legal, political and ganisations should be involved It said one third of the 64,600 on relatives and other families well water for cooking, bathing water polluted with rubbish from economic. Countries scor- in politics, while 20 per cent people in Honiara live in slums. to provide them with water or and washing.This has lead to a a well that was then used for ing 0-30 are regarded as said it was acceptable only to “a Of these, 92 per cent of house- resort to using streams and well rise in the health risks that are washing utensils and clothes. having a free press, those Soundtrack of local film gets airplay little” degree. scoring 31-60 are consid- ered ‘partly free’ and those by ZUBNAH KHAN to form a single interlinked scoring 61-100 ‘not free’. narrative with surprise end- Fiji edged closer to the FIJI fi lm Detour marked ings, he said. Tuvalu banks on foram project to reclaim shores ‘not free category’, falling the launch of its fi rst single The fi lm plot was written three more points to 57 from the original soundtrack by director Mitesh Mudaliar, by YVETTE D’UNIENVILLE low-lying atoll islands experi- he said. after recording the steep- at the 2dayFM radio station a former Fiji resident now encing the full brunt of climate “The main focus of this project est decline a year ago – 14 last Friday. living in Christchurch, while A PROJECT to salvage Tuvalu’s change and sea level rise. is to make sandy beaches to pro- points – as a result of the The single, Glowing Sil- the script was written by shorelines has been introduced. JICA’s project advisor Minoru tect the islands against sea level JICAPicture: 2010 Media Decree. houettes, is a mix of hip-hop Subramani, who is also a Sponsored by the Japanese In- Tamura the combined threats rise by rehabilitating the natural The South Pacifi c nation and rock music. lecturer in English Litera- ternational Cooperation of JICA, have degraded the local ecosys- island formation process of sand rated to have the freest The original soundtrack ture and Creative Writing at the project aims to accelerate tem interrupted nature’s way of production , transportation and press was Palau, with a consists of 10 songs, featur- the University of the South the natural process of producing making and transporting sand sedimentation.” score of 14, followed by ing Abhi, Jasmine Duxbury Pacifi c. foraminifera, a type of coral. that builds the islands. Tamura said this method the Marshall Islands at 17 and Tamsyn Cornwall. The movie is being shot in These organisms asexually re- “In addition to global threats, was deemed best suited because and Micronesia at 21. New It also features the local Fiji with a vast cast of local produce and turn into sand when local human activitiesproblems Tuvalu was formed from coral Zealand, by comparison, music groups Who ate the actors, musicians, cinema- they die. such as the degradation of the debris and foraminifera. was awarded a score of 15, Pie? and Surgelight. tographers and costume Accelerating their growth is coastal environment, jetties, sea- He said his team in Funafuti the U.S. scored 17 and Aus- In a press statement is- designers with the chore- expected to increase the island’s wallsand population growth on had successfully developed a tralia 21. The country with sued last week, Detour ography by Masti Arts and sand, which is crucial in the the main island of Funafuti have foram aquaculture system to the world’s freest press in producer Anurag Subramani Dance. Subramani said De- natural protection of the islands slow down the naturalprocess enhance foram reproduction 2010, according to Free- IN THE STUDIO: At the lauch of the single are, from right,Naziah Ali, Jasmine said the fi lm had the ele- tour promotes local talent. against sea level rise. of making sand and change the and create a favorable habitat for CORAL CULTURE: Former Tuvalu Prime Minister is shown the dom House, was Finland Duxbury, Abhi and Anurag Subramani with FBC’s Sophie Delanimati, left, ments of horror, thriller and Detour is produced by Tuvalu is among the Pacifi c’s current that transport the sand,” foram. foraminafera that is grown at an accelerated rate with a score of 10. and Allen Stevens. black comedy. It features local production company Picture supplied by ANURAG SUBRAMANI four stories woven together Bloody Marvelous Pictures. 12 September, 2011 - WANSOLWARA Wansolwara - SEPTEMBER, 2011 13 REVIEWS SPORTS Na’ia, a Talks begin on inter-tertiary competition for Oceania A reading treasure dolphin’s tale By SARAH VAMARASI of humanity S a people, we have been New regional platform through much, and we By ROPATE VALEMEI continue to sojourn on regardless. NAI’A, The Legend by ZHIYAD KHAN Sports Association (FUSA) said more sports later,” he said. like these to keep these athletes, plishments like these that create A fact of life in Fiji is that of the Dolphins is a the idea of having regional games While the venue hasn’t been he said. widespread interest. Ano matter how old or young we are, we marine documenta- THERE are ambitious plans for is going to be a good boost for confi rmed at this stage, Miller “This is going to be a break- “The interest has grown and I cannot escape the divisions that exist. ry, which was fi lmed regional inter-tertiary games with participating countries. believes Fiji could host the inau- through in Oceania, and tertiary think it’s a wonderful opportunity However, we can temper our reaction around the world. rugby sevens earmarked to start “We are hoping to get universi- gural meet. sports could be a vehicle that as it will give our athletics other and the way we think and behave in With the theme the ball rolling. ties from the around the region “We can host it; we have got gives life to this idea,” he added. avenues,” he said. general, so that we contribute to the “Their Power, their This was confi rmed by Vice (Australia and New Zealand in- the facilities, the resource people Athletes from Fiji performed “I strongly believe the Uni- greater good. message to human- President of Oceania Univer- cluded) to compete in high-level and there is also a lot of interest,” exceptionally well at the recent versity Games is it. It would be This is one of the many invaluable ity, their survival” is sity Sports Association (OUSA), competition,” he said. he said. World University Games in a wonderful opportunity to use lessons the Roko Tui Bau and former the enchanting fi lm Albert Miller. For the fi rst time ever, rugby Miller believes that inter- China. these games as a build-up for Vice President Ratu Joni Madraiwiwi about nature’s won- “There are big plans in the near sevens is expected to draw tertiary games could potentially Lesile Copland created a new events like the Pacifi c Games,” imparts in his book, A Personal derful miracles. future for development of sports universities from the around the be the regions answer to sustain national record in javelin with a he said. Perspective. Igelese Ete, an in the region and Oceania Inter- region next year. athletes. throw of 80.45 meters, a feat that “But we need a wider base of The book, which is available at the internationally tertiary competition is one,” he “Rugby is a popular sport in the “Most athletes just compete for has also enabled him to qualify support. I think it is important we University of the South Pacifi c’s Book renowned composer, said. region and we hope to have an a few years of their lives and fade for the London Olympics next make sure there’s support from Centre, is a compilation of his speeches. director and the Miller who is also the Vice inter-tertiary competition for that away even though they have a lot year. all stakeholders,” he added. There is a speech for everyone in this Head of School for President of Fiji University next year and hopefully include more to offer, we need initiatives Miller said that its accom- book. Those of us who live here will be Performing Arts at able to relate to much of what he says. the University of the South Pacifi c was asked to He utters many simple truths, score a scene for Megan Fox (The Spinner Dolphins some of which we may have taken for of Hawaii) and Whoopi Goldberg (The Common granted. Dolphins of South Africa) of Hollywood. Hard work For instance, in his speech at the “The Canadian Director, Jonathon Kay just gave Nakarawa Rotary Club, Suva, October 5, 2006 he me 3 days to write it. I wrote and put it on to their pays off, touches on social ties and our evolving documentary and also on their trailer”, said Igelese identities. Ete. proves his “Weddings and funerals are not just “You can see Pacifi c islanders in there to sing says QVS for the new couple and the dead, Ratu Joni’s speeches traverse a wide relationships and the values we impart the song and the soloist who won the NZ idol, the respectively but are important social terrain, from human rights, education, in our education systems and Samoan girl, and my church choir”. mettle captain occasions where we renew ties with the politics, law and even spirituality. communities,” he said in one of his Mr Ete said that it is a source of income for some living,” he writes. of the Pacifi c Islanders but for him it’s always what by RANOBA BAOA There’s much on tolerance and addresses. His witty observarions by RANOBA BAOA “Whether in merriment or sorrow, reconciliation. and anecdotes that refl ect the unique he loves to do. they remind us that family members “Reconciliation has to be niceties of our people and the frankness “I love to do those kind of things where we can IT was his fi rst Rugby World Cup and friends give life meaning and encouraged in the words and at which he lays the challenges ahead do world-class things,” he said. “I always feel that encounter, yet Leone Nakarawa NOTHING could wipe the depth. They also underscore the conducts of leaders, in the policies bare, make A Personal Perspective an we should not under-estimate what we do. So yeah! has already made his presence smile off his face when the importance of blood and kinship ties.” of institutions, the nature of our enviable addition to the home library. That was a privilege.” known. The 23-year-old lock, who siren signaled the end of is a towering mass at 6”5’, has the match. marveled local rugby fans since Captain Apisai Kalivaka- coming into the limelight early rua was on the bench when Aroma-scope this year. it dawned on him that the He was one of three players to dream had been realised. score a try against Namibia. His Queen Victoria In an interview prior to their School under-18 side had and spy kids departure, Nakarawa expected won the inaugural Deans competition to be tough. Fiji is Final Championships Un- By ZHIYAD KHAN in the pool, dubbed the Pool of der-18 trophy. WHEN I was fi rst told of a a good dosage of action and Death, alongside Namibia, ,South The Vulinitu team beat 4D movie, my initial reaction drama, the movie lacks the Africa, Wales and Samoa. Ratu Navula to secure the was, ‘seriously, what now?’. intensity and spontaneity Nakarawa resigned from the win at 19-13. After all the guessing, I that were present in the fi rst military to ensure New Zealand’s “We are so happy to later confi rmed that the fourt two installments. travel sanctions did not stop him have won the fi rst U18 sense was to do with smell. While the kids will enjoy from playing at the Rugby World Dean’s fi nal trophy and As we were ushered into it, the ones who’ve enjoyed Cup. grateful for the team’s the Village Six cinema, my the earlier three parts might He said he had no regrets when persistence in maintaining friend and I were each given be a little disappointed. it came to rugby. a lead in the fi rst half, ” he a numbered card with eight The moral lesson in His message to young people said. scratch-and-sniff scents. this story would have to be who wish to play rugby profession- “By the end of the fi rst The card was the need for ally is to work hard. half, we knew we had to to supposedly families to “Manage your time well and work twice as hard in the provide spend quality do your best if you want to have a second-half, and we did the added time with each rugby career,” he said. just that.” dimension For us in the other. Respected rugby commentator The number fi ve said he of smell. It’s It reminds Graham Eden singled out Nakara- had been playing for his technically Pacifi c, time us that we do wa as a worthy player. school ever since he was in called Aroma- not have all “The new players are totally form three. Scope. It works is something the time in the worthy,” he said. Despite winning the U14, quite simple.‘ world. “...(Nakrawa) may not have U15 and U16 categories in When a we don’t It especially been needed to play in this year’s previous years, Kalivaka- number fl ashes cautions RWC, (but) he could be the crux of rua’s team lost last year’s on teh screen really hold parents not the next World Cup because he’s U17 Dean’s fi nal. during the to make the only a youngster,” said Eden. RISING STAR: Lock Leone Nakarawa poses for Wansolwara at Ratu Sukuna Park. Picture: RANOBA BAOA “Last year was defi nitely feature, you dear mistake, that a wake up from God for us are required it is better to work and train harder,” to scratch the to spend the he said. “We have done corresponding time now with that by giving our best shot number on the their children right from the start. Ratu card and smell rather than Re-activate sports scholarship program, says coach Navula was a tough op- it. All eight scratch-and-sniff regret’ after you’ve lost the ponent but we managed to scents on the “Aroma-Scope” opportunities. by ZHIYAD KHAN erations as students graduate and dents who perform well academi- turned. “I am very happy for them pull through despite having start working,” he said. cally and also contribute to the that they have degrees and secured tied in the second-half, 13 card I was handed smelt It’s also about kids “There are a few weaknesses in sport they were nominated.” jobs, but they should have been to 13.” the same to me (smell of becoming more mature, and ATHLETICS Fiji Head Coach the program, one of them is to do “We need an effective system in back as a token of appreciation for He conceded that his chewing gum). about pulling together as a Albert Miller said the USP’s All with enforcing.” place and a good practice would be the free education they got,” he team’s ability to main- The whole exercise was family. For us in the Pacifi c, Rounder Scholarship program He said the high failure rate to monitor the students regularly,” said. tained possession for most quite aa nuisance because time is something we don’t should be reinstated because it was among scholarship recipeints he said. Miller said six students Miller said the program was a of the last 20 minutes of the exercise was distracting. really hold dear. Deadlines a worthwhile initiative. refl ected the need to improve were nominated by Athletics Fiji good initiative and should be reac- the game, ensured their As for 3D effects, I still are pushed and being late But, he adds that for the pro- screening. but after graduating the students tivated. victory. believe there is yet to be a is now being accepted as a gram to work, a better screening “Failure rate was high and by failed to give back to the federa- “It’s a wonderful initiative as it Kalivakarua’s next mis- movie that can really pull off form of popular local culture. process was necessary to ensure the time we were able to reach tion. presents so many opportunities to sion is to gain admission at The Avator’s breathtaking To sum it all up, if you recipients performed well academi- these students it was too late and a “We nominated them with the students. “I would encourage more the University of the South and scintillating effects, really want to try out what cally as well as in their sport. lot of them had already faded and understanding that they (athletics) students to apply as this is some- Pacifi c. although Transformers- this 4D craze is all about, go He said another downside faced gone out,” he said. would be back to serve us,’ he said. thing worthwhile students can do “I have dreams for play- Dark of the Moon wasn’t bad for it. Otherwise, you have in the last program was that recipi- “The screening process has to be “Unfortunately, in the three after high school and realise their ing internationally but my either. “all the time in the world” to ents did not give back as agreed. better and we need to select stu- years not many of them have re- true potential,” he said. fi rst priority right now is to Although there may be watch it anyway. “It is unfortunate for our fed- make it to USP,” he said.

14 SEPTEMBER, 2011 - Wansolwara Wansolwara - SEPTEMBER, 2011 15 SPORTS Positive signs Employ attacking game, says former Fiji coach

JOHNSTON

EDEN

GONEVA

Picture: RANOBA BAOA DOMONI FIJI’s HOPE: The Flying Fijians at their last public event at Sukuna Park before departing for the Rugby World Cup.

HE Flying Fijians did REPORT by: commentator Graham Eden should have kept the original “There are about 18 players very well in their first questioned the decision to take number of three half-back who are World Cup players,” he Rugby World Cup an extra forward at the expense positions. said. “They’ve left out a couple of game against Namibia, of the backline. “If they haven’t a specialist players who would have joined but need to lift their “The controversy of this is the half-back, the question is: “Who that grouping but they’ve been Tperformance in certain areas, difference in is to play in replaced by lesser ability players.” says Brad Johnstone. selection of the the position He was particularly scathing The former head coach of the SAJNEEL ROHIT players in each should both about the inclusion of two Fiji team to the RWC in Wales position,” he ex- Fiji has half-backs veteran players, which he (1999) said special attention must plained. be down?”, preferred not to name. He said be directed to improving their at- “The stand- supplied 20 he asked. while vast experience was an tacking game. ard of selecting He said asset, selection should largely be “We lacked in our tackles as the 30-member wings who play this was on the basis of physical capacity. our players were waiting for squad for 15s is 16 particularly “It is understood that human the Namibians to come to them RANOBA BAOA forwards and 14 around the worrisome body resilience becomes less rather than them going and shut- backs, but in Fiji’s given that tolerable as you grow older,” ting them down,” he said. torua International Stadium to case there has been world and we several of said Eden. “It would have been “This is one major area which secure Fiji’s win, 49-25. an over-duplica‘- Fiji’s best best to take on another younger needs to be improved.” “Our boys started off very well tion of some would have the wingers player.” He commended the scrum in their first game, which is a very positions.” had chosen But Flying Fijians coach Sam halves, whom he said did a better positive sign,” he said. He said there weakest set of to play for Domoni disagreed when the job. Johnstone listed Number 8 He also singled out centre Ser- was no need to other coun- comments were put to him. Netani Talei and winger Vereniki emaia Bai, who booted 19 points, take an extra wings that are tries. “This could be the best Goneva, who set a new record for his “outstanding” accuracy. flanker. “Fiji has selection team we have seen in as Fiji’s first player to score four It is the second time Fiji and “Three (flankers) playing at home supplied 20 many years. We have a promising Namibia have played each other tries in a RWC match, as the best are very capable wings who forwards and backs,” he said. at a world cup. Fiji won on both and there is again play around players in the game. “Our performance is based on occasions. In the Saturday game, a duplication. This the world “Four tries to Goneva in the everything that has been provided Namibia took an early lead shows the selectors have taken and we would have the weakest first game is a marvelous for us. This includes the through a penalty by Theuns from the backs an important po- set of wings that are playing at achievement, I hope it improves sponsors and support from the Kotze, who later slotted three sition where they might have best home,” he said. Eden said overall in the next game,”he said. public which we are very drop goals. Meanwhile, in an used another player.” about three-quarter of the team Lock Leone Nakarawa and grateful for.” interview before the Fiji team’s He said instead of cutting out had his support, especially the wing Naipolioni Nalaga also Fiji plays the defending cham- departure, veteran rugby a half-back, the selection team locks position. grounded a try each at the Ro- ’ pions Springboks on Saturday. 16 SEPTEMBER, 2011 - Wansolwara