Teaching our children from an early age just how important tradition is in education is crucial. By keeping our children grounded in tradition, we instil in them a sense of identity, values, and belonging.
This week, kindergartens in schools and independent day care centres celebrated a significant annual event in the education system’s calendar, Early Childhood Education (ECE) Week.
The week’s theme was Early Learning matters: Learning Through Connection, an apt and timely reminder of the vital role that education and tradition hold for our future generation.
At the heart of this is tradition.
The celebration in schools were nothing short of inspiring, particularly for one kindy in Baulevu, outside Nausori.
After a three-week preparation, the ECE students of Natoaika Village School did something unique.
The tiny tots there welcomed their guests from the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs with a complete traditional welcome ceremony.
From the vakasobu and vakamamaca both done with the kamunaga (whale’s tooth), the serving of the kava to the guest, to the presentation of gifts and its conclusion, this part of the iTaukei tradition requires precision and sincerity.
Despite their high-pitched voices and stature, you’d have thought that adults were carrying out the formality.
You could hear the faint voices of guests, parents, and guardians in awe of what unfolded before their eyes.
These tiny tots’ confidence and performance were all down to a T.
The ceremony pictures and videos were uploaded on the ministry’s page as well as the Prime Minister, Sitiveni Rabuka, which have now become viral.
Teaching our children from an early age just how important tradition is in education is crucial.
Let’s face it, you may have the highest degree there is in your community, you may be the first doctor or pilot but if you don’t know your tradition and your role in it you may as well be considered a lost soul.
We commend the teachers who played a part behind the scenes, especially to the one who guided them throughout this journey.
In today’s rapidly evolving world, it is essential to strike a balance between preserving our rich cultural traditions and equipping our children with a solid educational foundation to ensure their future success.
By keeping our children grounded in tradition, we instil in them a sense of identity, values, and belonging.
Understanding and respecting their cultural heritage not only fosters a strong sense of pride but also promotes empathy and open-mindedness towards diverse perspectives.
By providing them with a robust education, we equip them with the tools to adapt, innovate, and excel in various fields, thus securing their future opportunities and prosperity.
Emphasising both tradition and education creates well-rounded individuals, firmly rooted in their cultural heritage while confidently embracing the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
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