THE JET Volume 8 Number 3

Inside
TOP STORIES
MAY 2016. ISSUE 81
Consumers must still pay

Page 8
Nadi in pictures

Page 13
Jacks sponsor Nadi Rugby

Page 22
Man duped over taxi permit Intercontinental Resort is Olympians tour Brazil
Page 14
Page 23

Page 10 top 12

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50 CENTS
FIJIS FIRST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
Fiji on Showcase
By SERELISONI MOCEICA
Matelita Vivuna showcases her pottery skills and products at the 2016 Tourism Expo. Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI.
Fiji is the place where happiness

truly finds you.
This is the gist of the message the
Prime Minister, Voreqe Bainimarama
has urged visitors and other stakeholders of the tourism industry to
campaign for as he opened the 2016
Fiji Tourism Expo.
The Prime Minister welcomed
153 buyers and representatives of the
international and travel media along
with exhibitionists who congregated
at Denaraus Sofitel and the Fiji Sheraton resorts for the three day affair.
Team Fiji was the theme for this
years Expo and Mr Bainimarama
said Fijis ability to compete with
other destinations can be improved
if stakeholders worked closely together under this banner.
And I ask you all whether you
are from Fiji or overseas to harness
that spirit this week and the teamwork that produced it to also make
our industry stronger, he said.
He said the Expo also fostered
new relationships and strengthened
existing ones between the industry
and international buyers.
All with a view to moving for-
ward together and strengthening

Fijis overall position as a tourist destination, he added.
The Prime Minister said despite
the setbacks, highlighting the devastation of the Tropical Cyclone Winston, the Fijian spirit was alive and
acknowledged Team Fiji for pulling
together to confront the challenges
faced.
A total of 110 Fijian tourism operators including craftsmen, baristas,
wedding coordinators, wine retailers, chefs and many more showcased and promoted their products
to visitors during the event.
Tourism Fijis executive chairman
Truman Bradley also encouraged relevant stakeholders to work together
to further improve the standards of
the industry as it was a backbone of
the Fiji economy.
Mr Bradley welcomed international visitors and said the Expo
showcased the different sectors of
the tourism industry and hoped that
the visitors would continue promoting the Fiji Brand to the world.
The event was earlier blessed by
the Momo na Tui Nadi, Ratu Sailosi
Dawai after a delegation headed by
the Minister for Tourism Faiyaz Koya
presented their i-sevusevu one day
prior to the Expo.
That not only is Fiji very much
open for business, it is still and always will be because of our people
- the place where happiness truly
finds you.
Continued on page 15
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Fiji - the way the world should be
FROM THE DESK
National Heroes
Cyclone Winston came

with all its fury bundled into a
Category 5 ball of destruction.
It was the second biggest
cyclone on record and the biggest ever to hit Fiji.
It left behind 43 deaths,
thousands of homes destroyed, schools extensively
damaged to appoint where
students have been deployed
in other schools, crops ruined,
shattered lives and the list
goes on.
The destruction saw 62,000
people seek shelter in 935
evacuation centres around
the country.
Pictures showed a trail of
destruction and misery.
Amidst all this chaos
emerged heroes who risked
their own lives to save others.
Take for instance Sera
Tinaitamana of Qelekuro Village.
After taking her children to
safety, she returned during the
height of the monster storm to
collect some clothes from her
home which was at the mercy
of TC Winston.
Whilst inside, the house

collapsed on her, pinning her
to the ground amidst the rush
of a tidal wave and water from
a nearby creek.
No one heard her screams
as she struggled to free herself
while she drowned.
Seras story, and countless
of others like her will continue
to be passed down through
the generations.
In the face of the wrath of
TC Winston, they put others
before them and some, like
Sera, paid the ultimate price.
In this issue, the Jet Newspaper pays tribute to all those
who risked their lives during
the cyclone to lend a helping
hand to someone else.
Truly you are all heroes to
this nation.
To those like Sera who
died doing this, may they be
remembered by our nation on
February 20 every year, where
a minute of silence could be
observed in their memory.
Rest in Peace
Being the hub of the Pacific, Fiji has everything that a spectacular tropical paradise has to offer from private island resort accommodations, top class restaurants to white sandy beaches, inbound
tours, jet boat rides, hot air balloon rides, mountain trekking, inland tours, eco tourism, sky diving,
helicopter rides, cruise trips, scuba diving, massage and beauty parlours, vibrant night life and a
lot more than any other destination in the world offers
ON THE BRIGHT SIDE
Market Vendors Help Victims
CHARLES CHAMBERS
THE JET is Fijis first community newspaper published weekly by YOURSPACE LIMITED from Nadi - the tourism capital of Fiji.
PUBLISHER
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PRINTED By MAX MARKETING
LAYOUT By ANUSHIL KUMAR
Gangamma Devi (left) serves a customer at the fundraising drive. Photo: CHARLES CHAMBERS.
By CHARLES CHAMBERS
Nadi market vendors have
banded together in an effort to
raise money for Cyclone Winston victims.
Through contributions, the
vendors raised $600 to initially
start of fundraising efforts.
With the money. the market vendors bought groceries, set up a tent opposite the
Nadi Market and began selling
food.
Eye Drops Prices too Expensive

Consumers can request for
generic medicine if they do
not wish to pay more for the
originator.
This is the message from
the Consumer Council of Fiji
as prices for eye drops for
conjunctivitis have skyrocketed to as high as $19 at some
pharmacies.
More than 5000 cases of
conjunctivitis have been recorded around the country
and the Council has made the
call recently as complaints
have flooded in from consumers on the costs of the eye
drops.
The Council is urging the
pharmacists to guide the consumers by giving them the

choice between the generic
and the originator medication, the statement said.
The council said consumers have been left to pay for
the originator eye drops which
are more expensive than the
generic ones due to a lack of
knowledge on the products
available.
Consumers
especially
those without a doctors prescription are left with little
choice but to buy the medication on the advice of the pharmacists.
These are difficult times
for many families who will be
financially burdened coping
with the present outbreak.
THE JET - FIJIS FIRST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
The Council also conducted a random check at some

privately owned pharmacies
at the capital and found that
some were either running low
or out of stock with chloramphenicol, an important substance in the curing of pink
eye.
According to the statement, a few pharmacies in
Suva, Lautoka and Labasa do
not have the required medication for the infection.
The council has also urged
consumers to exercise responsibility and take preventative measures to avoid infection.
Association treasurer Gangamma Devi said once it was

decided to carry out the fundraising to assist those affected
by the cyclone, there was immediate response from their
members.
We started a collection
and raised $600 which we
managed to buy groceries and
meat and begin our cooking,
she said.
The fundraising began on
Tuesday after clearence was
obtained from the police and
health authorities.
All types of food and snacks
are being sold at the stall and
thise included palau, puri and
vegetable curry and snacks.
She said all market vendors had volunteered to take
turns in helping out at the stall.
She has encouraged the
people of Nadi to support
their efforts in raising funds for
those affected.
Ms Devi said a group of
market vendors would begin
visiting affected areas in Ra-
kiraki, Tailevu and other areas

from next week.
Another vendor, Abdul
Jameer said he had visited
some of these areas himself
and had seen the damages
caused by the cyclone.
Some of these areas are
really badly damaged so we
aim to make their lives better
with what we are doing, he
said.
He also welcomed donations of any sort from members of the public.
LOCAL NEWS
FCLC to Learn from New Caledonia Empty Shelves in
Four regional agricultural

organisations including the
Fiji Crop and Livestock Council will now unite through a
Memorandum of Understanding that was signed recently
with the Charge de Mission for
the Regional Technical Cooperation for the New Caledonia
Chamber of Agriculture, Francois Japiot.
The MOU between Fiji,
French Polynesia, Wallis & Futuna, Vanuatu and New Caledonia sees New Caledonia
piloting the network with over
70 years of experience, according to FCLC media report.

This concept of farmer
associations and commodity associations is not new to
Fiji and were certainly not the
most advanced in this field.
Its clear that New Caledonia
has a lot to offer its partners,
said FCLC chairman, Simon
Cole.
Mr Cole said the MOU
would foster the implementation of regional projects that
was bound to benefit the agricultural sector within the
Pacific.
The whole idea is to share
ideas and information, imple-
ment regional projects to develop technical and economic

exchanges, and possibly take
on regional issues such as the
protection of kava as a Pacific
Island crop.
According to the statement, Mr Cole will visit New
Caledonia Chamber of Agriculture soon to observe and
learn about the systems and
structures set in place by its
Pacific neighbor.
FCLC hopes to draw on
the type of services the Chamber provides, funding mechanisms they have in place, how
they interact with government
and the private sector, even
their agricultural insurance

schemes, he said.
FCLC established a professional relationship with
the Chamber a year ago and
Mr Cole said the opportunity to learn from the country
was welcomed and would
strengthen the work of the
Council.
Commodity farmers affected by Cyclone Winston were
expected to be rehabilitated
with funds totaling $140,000
donated by the New Caledonian agricultural chamber to
FCLC.
Bank Hailed as a Key Partner for

Tourism Growth
Westpac Banking Corporation is now a confirmed gold
sponsor for the Fijian Tourism
Expo 2016.
This after the bank presented a $20,000 cheque to Tourism Fijis executive chairman,
Truman Bradley at a press
conference sponsoring the
event for the third consecutive
year.
Mr Bradley acknowledged
the banks support and contribution towards the growth
of the tourism industry in the
country.
Westpac has been outstanding over the past three
years, backing the number
one tourism event in Fiji.
FTE is about establishing
and strengthening partnerships at different levels to elevate our tourism industry as
our theme for this year, Team
Fiji, clearly states, Mr Bradley
said.
He said innovative banking
products by the bank helped
make banking easy and convenient for tourists who visited the country.
Westpac plays an important part from the time tourists
arrive in Fiji and are hosted
by our extremely competent
and friendly staff at the Arriv-
Westpac Fijis General Manager, Mr. Brett Hooker presenting the $20,000 sponsorship cheque
to Tourism Fijis Executive Chairman, Mr. Truman Bradley. Photo: NEWSWIRE.COM
als foreign exchange booth
and Westpac full service Nadi
International Airport branch
making not only our visitors

feel home but making it easier for our visitors with their
UNICEF Focuses on Children

Fourty percent of the countrys total population is directly impacted by Tropical
Cyclone Winston.
This is an estimated
347,000 people including
120,000 children according to
a United Nations report.
This is a truly nationwide
disaster for Fiji said UNICEF
Pacific Representative, Dr.
Karen Allen.
It is now clear that a staggering 40 per cent of Fijis children are very much at risk.
The immediate and long-term
implications for their health,
safety, education and development are colossal.
The doctor said that children have lost possessions,
homes, food and schools
amongst others and needed
urgent assistance.
Many of these children
dont have safe drinking water, power or a roof over their
heads, Dr Allen said.
As related by thirteen year
old Yaqeta villager Adi from
Yasawa, the events of the
night was sheer terror and Dr
Allen said similar stories were
shared by the children from
the affected areas and schools
as a last refuge during emergencies were also taken away.
At least 240 schools were
damaged and others were still
banking needs, Mr Bradley

emphasized.
The bank was also hailed
in use as evacuation centres.

The Government of Fiji is
to be commended for its very
strong commitment and results in getting children back
to school as quickly as possible, Dr. Allen said and added
UNICEF was in support of government initiatives towards
education.
Sixty temporary class-
rooms have been supplied

by UNICEF with more on the
way.
The world body is also supporting affected children to
return to school and also their
families with the focus on access to clean, safe drinking
water, sanitation, health and
protection.
By CHARLES CHAMBERS
Supermarkets
have
blamed the empty shelves in
their shops on the rush by the
public to buy basic food items
in the aftermath of Cyclone
Winston.
They said another reason
for the dwindling stocks was
that large orders were taken
by government and different
organisations in the rush to
transport food to cyclone ravaged victims.
The Consumer Council of
Fiji had received complaints
and concerns from consumers that some supermarkets
and shops located in the urban and peri-urban areas
were running low on basic
food items after the Tropical
Cyclone Winston.
Consumers found lot more
empty shelves in some supermarket that usually stocked
basic food items.
Council CEO Premila Kumar said the Council conducted a snap survey around
the main urban centres in the
country which showed basic
food items such as potatoes,
garlic, flour (2kg &4kg), oil,
salt, blue peas, dhal, breakfast
crackers and sugar were not
on the shelves.
Nevertheless, supermarkets have advised the Council that they were facing difficulties in re-stocking their
shelves due to high demand
from consumers, Mrs Kumar
said.
In recent days, some supermarkets have been experiencing a gush of shoppers
buying basic food items such
as rice, flour, oil, tin fish, pow-
ered milk, dhal, potatoes, noodles, salt, tea leaf, breakfast

crackers and other non-food
items such as toilet paper,
sanitary pads, bathing soap,
toothpaste, mosquito coil,
battery, candles and matches
all to make packs to donate
to the cyclone-struck families, Mrs Kumar said.
Some families have also
shopped more in these recent
times to stock up food and
household items for the wellbeing of their own families.
Mrs Kumar said supermarkets had also sold some of
these food items in high volume to government departments, aid agencies, civil society organisations, religious
organisations and other donor groups which have taken
frontline to distribute food rations to the affected families.
These are not normal
times, therefore, consumers
should expect slight delay in
restocking of shelves or short
supply of some items.
There is shortage of potatoes in the country and importers have confirmed that
the shipment is on its way and
some are awaiting clearance
from the Biosecurity Authority
of Fiji.
As expected our markets
are also running low on fresh
supply of green vegies, root
crops and other vegetables,
Mrs Kumar said.
The Council is urging consumers to be vigilant while
shopping because some traders have increased the prices
of goods to unsuspecting consumers. Consumers should
report such cases immediately, she said.
as a key partner for the elevation of the tourism industry in

Fiji.
Tourism Fiji emphasises
on partnerships because they
are crucial for a trade event
like FTE to be successful and
Westpacs support since the
inaugural event in 2014 shows
the confidence the Bank has
in the event and the industry,

he added.
The Tourism Expo is a
three day event hosted by
Tourism Fiji and the National
Tourism Organisation.
Stakeholder in the industry
use the event to engage directly with international buyers and travel trade media.
little cousin these days; he is

the first one up and also the
last one in. Buddy and family
are at a loss for words however pleasantly surprised at the
change in attitude. It could not
have come at a better time.
witness the labour of these

hard working Good Samaritans. Winston Churchill said
We make a living by what we
get. We make a life by what
we give.
Once Upon a Time

It is good to see Queen Victoria School students getting
into the swing of things again.
Some are more excited than
others taking classes with
the opposite sex at their new
schools. Buddys cousin has
been deployed to an all girls
school and his family is forever teasing him about his extra
exuberance for school these
days. Mom thinks that this
could have been a blessing in
disguise. No playing sickies for
UNICEF Pacific Representative Dr. Karen Allen. Photo: SUPPLIED.
Supermarkets
Buddy commends the efforts of all those involved in

the relief supplies to affected
victims of Cyclone Winston.
Young and old alike are in on
the action, religious groups,
youth groups, businesses,
non-governmental organisations, the government, the
international community and
even the individuals themselves who have put in what
they have, shared their money, time, labour, food, clothes
and others to those that need
it the most. It is a blessing to
Plenty of shopping, some

merry making and a whole
lot of drama as members
of the public get their $1000
and $5000 FNPF relief funds.
Buddy overheard a conversation at Votualevus Shop N
Save. So do you have your
FNPF now? Girl asks boy. Boy
shakes his head in response.
I saw you last night at Deep
Sea (Nadi town night spot),
who are you trying to fool?
Boy sheepishly smiles at girl
and said, I was going to surprise you. Well, I bet girl was
surprised all right.
Eye Drops Prices too Expensive

Consumers can request for generic medicine if they do not wish to pay more for the originator.
This is the message from the Consumer Council of Fiji as prices for eye drops for conjunctivitis have skyrocketed to as high as $19 at some pharmacies.
More than 5000 cases of conjunctivitis have been recorded around the country and the
Council has made the call recently as complaints have flooded in from consumers on the
costs of the eye drops.
LOCAL NEWS
Organic Farming to Benefit Pacific Youths

By CHARLES CHAMBERS
Youths from three Pacific
Island nations are are set to
improve their lifestyles with
the assistance of the United
Nations Development Programme.
More than a thousand Fijian, Vanuatu and Samoan
youths will be assisted to secure employment through
organic agriculture with the
launch of a USD 1.5 million
two-year programme in Suva,
Fiji, recently.
The Farm to Table project is a partnership between
UNDP, the International Fund
for Agriculture Development
(IFAD) and the Pacific Organic
and Ethical Trade Community
(POETCom) housed within
the Pacific Community (SPC)
funded by the Sustainable Development Fund (SDG-F).
Activities of the project
would address the high levels
of youth unemployment in the
three countries through skills
building in organic agriculture, income generation, food
security and climate change
resilience.
UNDP Resident Coordinator Osnat Lubrani said the UN
was looking forward to supporting a programme focused
on sustainable livelihoods
that targeted youths, adding
the project could open up
opportunities for income generation, boost confidence and
empower young women and
men.
The UN is proud to work
in partnership with SPC and
POETCom on this initiative, an
excellent approach to sustainable farming and at the core is
that it relates to food security
and nutrition as well as climate change adaptation, she
said.
All these are closely connected to the recently adopted Sustainable Development
Goals.
Organic agriculture built
resilient farming systems
with the ability to withstand
extreme weather events and
can provide yields comparable to conventional or chemical based farms.
As lead implementing
agency, POETCom would
work with partner civil society organisations, FRIEND,
Farm Support Association and
Women in Business Development, and the governments
of the three countries to identify suitable youths to receive
training in organic agriculture
and product development.
Target youths were those
seeking employment between 18 and 30 years of age
or transitioning to formal employment within the next 12 to
24 months.
The programme would address the high level of youth
unemployment in the three
countries, with 44 percent of
the youth population in Fiji
and 8.9 percent in Vanuatu.
Part of the progarmme
would be to develope links
linkages between the agriculture and tourism sectors
of these countries, mapping
value chains from the farms
to hotel tables or retail outlets.
In Fiji we are going to focus on Cyclone Winston badly
hit areas helping to rebuild the
economy through supporting
the value chains between the
suppliers (youths) and buyers (hotels and restaurants),
developing menus that will
use local products or the promotion of local products,
POETCom Coordinator Karen
Youths try their hand out at farming. Photo: SUPPLIED.
Vegetable Prices Out of Control
Refrain
from
Pointing Laser
Lights at
Aircrafts: CAAF
An earlier picture of a vegetable stall at Labasa Market. Photo: SUPPLIED.
By CHARLES CHAMBERS
The post Cyclone Winston
era has come with new problems for everyone the soaring prices of vegetables.
Fiji has highlighted some of
the prices of vegetables in the
Suva-Nausori corridor, Navua,
Sigatoka and Labasa.
Market vendors, including
those selling on the roadside
have come under the Councils spotlight and are being
questioned.
The Council conducted

market surveillance in these
areas which showed that the
prices of fresh produce have
increased by threefold.
While price of produce increased steeply, the Council
noticed shrinking in quantity.
Long beans were being
sold for $5 to $7 a bundle,
okra at $3 to $4 a plate, and
eggplant selling at $3 a plate.
The Nausori market also
showed a sharp increase in
the prices of the vegetable
and fresh fruits.
At Labasa market, pump-
kin was selling at $5 apiece,

okra at $2 a heap but with
reduced quantity while long
bean was going for $3.50 a
bundle.
Council CEO Premila Kumar said many consumers
had contacted the Council
recently raising concern over
the price hike.
She said the consumers questioned as to why the
prices of vegetables had gone
up in Suva, Labasa, Navua and
Sigatoka when these areas experienced minimum impact
of the cyclone.
The Council also noticed

that vendors selling fruits/vegetables from their own garden
on the roadside in the central
division have also hiked up
the prices, Mrs Kumar said.
The Council is trying to
grasp the reason for price
increases as most of the produce are being supplied to the
central division from Sigatoka,
Navua and parts of Nausori
which are not the ones worst
hit by cyclone, she said.
Market and roadside vendors should stop using shortage as an excuse to fill their
pockets.
If consumers suspect over
pricing, then they must ask
the vendor to explain price
increases that seems unreasonable.
Mrs Kumar said if anyone was not satisfied with
the vendors response, they
could lodge a complaint with
the Council or Fiji Commerce
Commission with the vendors name, location, description of the goods and services
and the price.
The public has been urged

to report any activities on the
ground regarding the use of
laser lights on aircrafts flying
in and out of the country.
The increase in air traffic
due to rehabilitation efforts
from the international community has seen more planes
on Fiji runaways.
However It has been
brought to the attention of
the Civil Aviation Authority of
Fiji that laser lights have been
observed in the vicinity of Airports and pointed towards aircrafts approaching to land.
A recent press release has
warned against the use of
such laser lights on approaching planes as they could blind
pilots and endanger aircrafts
and pilots on board.
CAAF has said the activity
was a serious breach of the
Aircraft Navigation Regulations and is also a criminal
offence.
Any person who is caught
pointing laser light to any aircraft could be charged under
the Criminal Law and liable
for prosecution, the statement said.
The public has been requested to refrain from this
illegal activity and also report
any sightings of laser lights
found directed at approaching aircrafts.
CAAF can be contacted on
6721555 during normal hours
or toll free confidential reporting line 0800 6725 799.
USP NEWS
Tourism Studies Get Boost

By CHARLES CHAMBERS
Providing each other with

relevant information to boost
the growth of the tourism
industry was the key issue
following the signing of an
agreement earlier this month.
The University of the South
Pacific (USP) and Fijis Ministry of Industry, Trade and Tourism (MITT) signed a Memorandum of Understanding
(MOU) which would enable
both organisations to work
closely to maximise effective
cooperation and efficiency.
This MOU was an extension of the previous one,
which was established between USPs School of Tourism and Hospitality Management and MITT in 2013.
While signing the MOU

on 15 March 2016, the ViceChancellor and President of
USP, Professor Rajesh Chandra said that the MOU would
provide opportunities for USP
and MITT to share information, help drive research relevant to the tourism industry,
provide opportunities for students to have placements and
create relationships and connections for the growth of the
tourism industry.
Professor Chandra stressed
that the University had excellent staff, particularly in the
School of Tourism and Hospitality Management (STHM)
and that the School has international accreditation of
its programmes through the
International Centre of Excel-
lence in Tourism and Hospitality Education.

We would like to see
the best outcomes from this
MOU and would like to have
a constructive relationship
with MITT, Professor Chandra said.
In welcoming the five-year
partnership with USP, Permanent Secretary of MITT, Mr
Shaheen Ali said the MOU
provides a committed approach by the Ministry to
work with USP to achieve
a common goal to improve
the countrys tourism sector
which is a vehicle for the Fijian economy.
Mr Ali added that his Ministry would like to increase
interaction with STHM and
the University in terms of get-
ting more research in various

areas of the tourism sector,
particularly when the Ministry
embarked on certain policy
initiatives to look for new markets and strategies.
In terms of developing
our long term plans, MITT is
currently working on its tourism development plan for
the year 2020 and we already
have good interactions with
the University in this regard,
he said.
Within the new partnership, a special working group
with co-opted members from
both parties would be established, particularly in an attempt to ensure that plans and
recommended programmes
had been systematically embraced.
Professor Rajesh Chandra (right) and Mr Ali shake hands following the signing of the MOU. Photo: SUPPLIED.
University students Search for

Medicinal Drugs
By CHARLES CHAMBERS
A team of scientists from
The University of the South
Pacifics (USP) Institute of Applied Sciences (IAS) participated in a 2-week expedition
to remote regions of the Solomon Islands in early January
2016.
Alongside
collaborators
and researchers from the
Scripps Institution of Oceanography and Georgia Institute of Technology, USA, the
teams goal was to discover
marine organisms which
could be explored as a potential source of useful drugs.
The team was led by Dr
Katy Soapi and comprised of
the Assistant Project Manager,
Mr Klaus Feussner, Scientific officer Mr Joape Ginigini,
Technician Mr Talemo Waqa
and their overseas counterparts.
Drug discovery efforts focus on four major disease
areas of importance to the
United States and developing
nations: infectious diseases

including tuberculosis and
drug-resistant
pathogens;
neglected tropical diseases
including hookworms, roundworms and malaria; cancer;
and neurodegenerative and
central nervous system disorders.
The team collected seaweeds, sponges and marine
microbes whose chemical extracts and chemical constituents are now being screened
in the four therapeutic areas.
Mr Feussner, while acknowledging the role of IASs
long-term collaborators stated
that they would continue to
take the lead role in the region
in the study of plants, marine
organisms and bacteria to discover new drugs.
Aside from drug discovery
efforts, results of the research
and ecological surveys will
contribute to developing innovative conservation and
management options that will
help preserve biodiversity and
the health of coral reefs in the
South Pacific.
Reef growths such as these could provide new drugs to cure

illnesses. Photo: GOOGLE.
Academic Freedom Crucial, says USP VC

USP MEDIA
Academic freedom is crucial for universities and USP
is no exception, said The University of the South Pacifics
(USP) Vice-Chancellor and
President, Professor Rajesh
Chandra.
He made the comment at
the first Staff Forum for the
year at the Japan-Pacific ICT
Centre in Laucala on 25 April,
2016.
Professor Chandra said
academic freedom largely
involves the ability of the University to develop its curricular without interference from
anyone except for controls
such as the relevance and
modernity of the programmes
and courses offered, and their
alignment with the Strategic
Plan objectives.
It means the freedom that
each lecturer has to perform
the learning, teaching and research activities without interference, he emphasised.
According to Professor
Chandra, academic freedom
is also the ability of staff to
make comments publicly, observing the codes relevant to
their professions, reflecting
their areas of expertise.
Academic freedom does
not give you a license to defame other people or to pursue a biased and personal
agenda or to endanger the
academic freedom of the vast
majority of your colleagues,
he noted.
Professor Chandra also
told staff members that USPs
guidelines and provisions relating to academic freedom
are similar to those of Australian and New Zealand universities.
Members attending the first Staff Forum for the year at the Japan-Pacific ICT Centre in Laucala, Suva. Photo: SUPPLIED.
said the University can only
succeed in its goal of transforming itself from good to
excellent if staff cohesion is
maintained.
He added that universities
are places where one can disagree with others, which is the
norm of any good university.
I would like to see more emphasis on how staff can work
together, how colleagues can
be respected and how we can
be more professional. We argue different points but when
people put their personal
agendas above the interest of
the university, than those staff

have a real problem, Professor Chandra added.
Professor Chandra urged
staff at all levels to engage
with each other.
I would like to suggest
that engagement be an important priority at all levels including Senior Management,
Deans, Heads of Schools, and
all supervisors so that we do
not have any sense of alienation that can quickly set in,
in any situation, especially so
when there are a lot of changes going on, he said.
He assured staff that they
had the complete freedom

to raise any issues affecting
them without fear at the university and urged staff to be
professional, observe the relevant codes of ethics of their
disciplines, and demonstrate
the strength of their academic
training and expertise.
confirmed that management
was engaging with the unions
and staff representatives to finalise agreements for the welfare of staff.
One
such
agreement
which is likely to be implemented soon, he said, was the
rolling out of five-year contract

for staff instead of three years.
I want to ensure that this
happens either towards the
end of this year or early next
year so we can deal with the
inadequacies of three year
contracts. We also want to
agree on good probation arrangements when we move
to longer terms to protect both
parties, he noted.
He said management will
work on concluding agreements with the other unions
so that all of us have clear
paths to where we are heading.
Professor Chandra added

that he was expecting grand
celebrations at USPs 50th anniversary to mark the anniversary of this unique institution that really has shaped our
region in a way that no university, other than the University
of West Indies has been able
to do.
Staff constitute our main
focus because without you
we cannot deliver anything.
We are together on this inclusive and shared journey, he
said.
LOCAL NEWS
USP Student Celebrates

Birthday in Japan
By CHARLES CHAMBERS
Emmanuel Duane Mar
could have wished for a better
birthday.
Waking up on the morning
of his birthday in Japan was
like a dream come true.
The best thing about it was
that it was a sponsored trip for
this University of the South Pacific student.
This was the emotion expressed by Emmanuel who
celebrated his birthday in Japan on 23 February, 2016.
This came as part of his
trip under the Japan-East Asia
Network of Exchange for Students and Youths (JENESYS)
2015.
The JENESYS 2015 project is a people-to-people exchange programme between
Japan and the Asia-Pacific
region.
The purpose of this project is to promote mutual trust
and understanding among the
people of Japan and the AsiaPacific region, and to build a
basis for future friendship and
cooperation.
It also aims to promote a
global understanding of Japans society, history, diverse
culture, politics, and diplomatic relations.
Emmanuel described his
27th birthday in Japan as one
he will always cherish.
To celebrate his big day,
he visited a Buddhist Temple,

located near to where his JENESYS group was staying and
thanked God for his life and
opportunities.
Emmanuel was part of
group 6 out of 10 groups,
whose travel dates were from
17-25 February 2016.
As part of JENESYS 2015
project, Emmanuels group
visited a number of places, including the National Olympics
Memorial Youth Centre in Tokyo, Tokyo Tower, Bunsei University of Arts, Sasanuma Family Home Stay, Ohtawara farm
land, strawberry farm house,
spring bathing, Ohtawara City
Hall and the Buddhist Temple.
Emmanuel said that because of his love for watching
Japanese anime, he had the
advantage of understanding
the language, which helped
him bridge language barriers
during the tour sessions.
Knowing the language,
while not necessary for the
trip, certainly came in handy
on many occasions, as I was
able to provide quick assistance to members who found
the barrier challenging, he
added.
Emmanuel pointed out
that timeliness is paramount
in Japan.
He said that tardiness is often looked down upon by the
Japanese society, adding that,
Japanese people are very
strict about being on time and
even being a few minutes late

is not taken lightly.
For 26-year-old Rosalia Ralulu who was also part of the
trip, the first thing that caught
her attention was the utilisation of space in Japan.
She said that contrary to
the Fijian way of building
style, the Japanese people
maximise small space to get
the best of a particular area,
whether it is a city or rural
zone.
Rosalia, who is pursuing
her Bachelor of Commerce
at USP, believes that being selected for the JENESYS 2015
programme came as a blessing to her.
She added that she learnt
a lot about the importance of
preserving culture and tradition.
The trip reminded me
that no matter where we are
in the world, it is vital that we
treasure and protect our culture, customs and traditions
for they are the totems of our
identity, Rosalia said.
As part of her trip, Rosalia
visited world heritage sites,
temples, shrines and participated in cross cultural programmes and arts events.
A total of 279 participants
from 16 countries in the Pacific, including Australia and
New Zealand were part of the
JENESYS 2015 project.
LAUTOKA CAMPUS
CAREGIVING FUNDAMENTALS
The USP Lautoka Campus is pleased to announce its 2nd offering of the training course,
Caregiving Fundamentals for 2016.

If you are interested in Caregiving as a Homecare Worker, or as a Family Caregiver,
or pursuing a career in Caregiving, then this course is for you. The Course consists of
110 hours of classroom theory, skills and demonstrations and First Aid/CPR training
together with 40 hours of practical with an approved client. This course provides you with
necessary skills required in Caregiving.
Successful students will be awarded a Certificate of Completion from USP and First Aid/
CPR Certificate from Fiji Red Cross Society.
Day Cluster:
25 April 2016 - 17 June 2016
Duration: 8 weeks
Time: 9am to 2pm
Venue: USP Lautoka Campus
Evening Cluster:
25 April 2016 - 24 June 2016
Duration: 9 weeks
Time: 5pm 8pm
Venue: USP Lautoka Campus
Fees: $900 (Cash, installments, Cheque or can be assisted by FNPF)
Minimum admission requirements: Must be 18 years and over; FJC pass in English or
has good command of spoken and written English. Submit the application with a copy of
birth certificate and two (2) passport photos.
We only have 20 places per class to apply early to secure your place.
To obtain the enrolment form and for further information, contact Rajendra Singh Tel: 666
6800 /Fax: 6667133 or Email: rajendra.singh@usp.ac.fj or Babita Sharma Email: Babita.
Sharma@usp.ac.fj or enquire at the USP Lautoka Campus, Western House, corner of
Vidilo Street, Lautoka or visit our website: www.usp.ac.fj/lautoka.
TOWARDS EXCELLENCE IN LEARNING AND KNOWLEDGE CREATION
LAUTOKA CAMPUS
OHS MODULES 1 & 2 TRAINING

Emmanuel Duane Mar (front row, far right) with his group members at the Meiji Shrine Grounds
in Japan as part of the Jenesys 2015 programme. Photo: SUPPLIED.
Acquire knowledge and skills in identifying hazards, assessing and controlling risk and in contributing
to occupational health and safety management in your organisation. It is mandatory in Fiji under Legal
Notice 169 section 7(1) that OHS special training should be provided to Health & Safety representatives and
committee members in every work place. Safety at work is everyones concern.
Learning outcomes
Take Advantage of New RHS

Reductions, Minister Says
At the successful completion of the training

participants will be able to:
1. Explain the roles & functions of OHS
representatives and the committee.
2. Demonstrate the use of workplace
arrangements to resolve workplace health &
safety issues.
Training content
The one third contributions of applicants of the Rural

Housing Assistance has been
reduced to below $6,000 from
the initial $18,000.
This was confirmed by the
Minister of Rural and Maritime
Development and National
Disaster Management permanent secretary, Meleti Bainimarama.
He said the reduction was
mainly due to the decrease in
the costs of building materials
due to the reduction of Value
Added Tax from 15 percent to
9 percent.
The previous market
price for the 24x16 timber
frame RHA building was
$18,307.19 and applicants had
to pay a 1/3 contribution of
$6,102.43.
Due to the reduction in
VAT from 15 per cent to 9 per
cent as announced by Government, the current or new
OHS Act 1996 application

Workplace arrangements
Establishment of OHS reps & committees
Functions of the OHS committee
Managing OHS The 6 steps approach
Current OHS regulations
3. Describe methods used to identify workplace

hazards & assess their risk factors.
4. Apply OHS technology & communication skills
5. Identify the relevant OHS regulations & codes
of practice
SMART audit
Accident investigation & reporting
Hazard identification & risk assessment &
controls
Hazardous substances
Target Group
This training is open for all interested individuals.
It is also available for in-house training delivery.
Training will also be delivered in other districts of the Western Division on demand. Interested persons
are requested to liaise with your networks and collect expressions of interest. You can then contact the
undersigned for scheduling of training and other logistics.
Minister of Rural and Maritime Development and National

Disaster Management permanent secretary, Meleti Bainimarama. Photo: FILE.
market price has decreased
to below $18,000 and accordingly we have reduced the 1/3
contribution to below $6,000.
Mr Bainimarama has urged
all rural Fijians to take advantage of the changes and
benefit from cyclone resistant
homes.
There is however a slight
variation in costs between
the divisions and the minister
confirmed they were based
on the current market prices
of building materials at the
divisions.
Dates, Days & Time
Applications Due Date
Venue
Fee
Wednesday & Thursday

11 & 12 May
18 & 19 May
25 & 26 May
Time: 5pm to 8pm
6 May 2016
USP Lautoka
Campus
$320 per person
To obtain enrolment form and for further information, contact: Rajendra Singh, tel: 6666800; fax:
6667133; email: rajendra.singh@usp.ac.fj or Babita Sharma, Email: babita.sharma@usp.ac.fj or enquire at
the USP Lautoka Campus, Western House, corner of Vidilo Street, Lautoka or visit our website:
www.usp.ac.fj/lautoka
TOWARDS EXCELLENCE IN LEARNING AND KNOWLEDGE CREATION
LOCAL NEWS
Work Related Stress a Global Issue: Koroilavesau
Sweet Tweets:
What is your opinion on the current
maintenance of the
Nadi roads?
Elia Kula,
Nadi Back Road
Members of the 2016 World OHS Day Workshop Participants with Chief Guest Hon Minister for Employment, Tripartite Partners, ILO Represetnatives
and Employment Ministry Officials. Photo: SUPPLIED.
Work related stress is now
a global issue and affects
workers in both developed
and developing countries.
The comment was made
by the Minister for Employment Semi Koroilavesau at
the recent 2016 World Day
for Safety and Health at Work
Workshop.
He said according to the
International Labour Organisation workers were under
great pressure to meet the
demands of modern working

life.
The workshop held at the
Novotel Convention Centre
targeted employers, workers
and government representatives with the theme Workplace Stress A Collective
Challenge.
The western and northern
division also had similar programmes held at the end of
last month.
Mr Koroilavesau said lines
separating work from life are
becoming more difficult to
identify.
This was because the pace

of work was dictated by instant communications and
high levels of global competition.
Without health at work
a person cannot contribute
to society and achieve wellbeing. If health at work is
threatened, there is no basis
for productive employment
and socio-economic development. The minister said.
The burden of mental ill
health is highly relevant to the
world of work and it has an
important impact on peoples
Women of Fiji Remembered

By CHARLES CHAMBERS
Fijis women, especially
those who suffered as a result of Cyclone Winston were
remembered during International Womens Day.
The Ministry of Women,
Children and Poverty Alleviation paid tribute to all Fijian
women and children and especially those have been affected by the Cyclone Winston.
Our hearts and prayers,
particularly goes out to those
who have lost their family
members, Minister Rosy Akbar said.
However, we strongly believe that this has not dampened the Fijian spirit, to work
together as one nation, one
people to rebuild our great nation, she said.
Women are the significant agents of change in our
families and communities
and it is their hard work and
commitment that builds the
strong foundation for the future of their family and that of

the nation.
She said all around the
world, International Womens
Day represented the most significant day in the calendar,
as everyone was reminded of
the contributions of mothers,
daughters and sisters in building their homes and communities.
Fiji joins the rest of the
world in recognizing the
achievements of women and
addresses the challenges they
face whilst maximizing on the
opportunities to uplift their
lives.
The national theme for
this years celebration is,
Make it Happen: Pledge for
Parity.
As we all join hands to
celebrate this day I urge all
stakeholders,
Non-Government Organizations (NGOs),
Civil Based Organizations and
both local and international
partners to provide their support and work with the Fijian
Government in the Rehabilitation and Recovery process of

the families, particularly keeping in mind that there are still
women and children out there
who need our assistance.
As we commemorate
2016 International Womens
Day, the key message that
needs to reach every home
and community in Fiji, is that
partnership between men and
women is the foundation for
establishing peaceful families
and a strong nation.
Its about males and females working in collaboration for sustainable development for an environment that
we will leave to our children
and future generations, Ms
Akbar said.
My humble plea to the all
the families is to please work
together with women in your
communities.
She said this was particular at this time when Fiji
persevered to recover from
the devastating impacts of Cyclone Winston.
wellbeing, reducing employment prospects and wages,

with a deleterious effect on
families income and enterprises productivity, and causing high direct and indirect
costs to the economy.
Koroilavesau
strongly
urged employers and workers
to manage workplace stress
through collective measures
as it is an essential part for
both individuals and at corporate level to ensure that workplaces are healthy, safe and
productive to work in.
According to the Minister
workplaces need to redefine
their work systems to deal
with workplace stress.
World Day for Safety and
Health at Work is on the 28th
of April each year.
I think the government

is doing a good job trying to
get this work done not just
for Nadi but other places as
well. But maybe it would
be a good idea if the proper
authorities keep a lookout
for speed driving when the
work is complete because
of the many road accidents
we have.
Consumers Must still Pay

CONSUMER COUNCIL OF
FIJI
Consumers Must Still Pay
Despite the enactment of
the Fair Reporting of Credit
Act of 2016, consumers who
owe money to their banks,
hire purchase companies and
other financial institutions will
still have to clear their arrears.
Fiji would like to advice consumers to continue with their
payments otherwise they will
incur interest, receive default
notices and face repossession or mortgagee sale of their
property.
Consumers must take note
that the passing of the new
legislation does not mean that
consumers credit/loan will be
written off.
Their bank loans and their
accounts with the respective
hire purchase companies will
remain active, thus, it will be
business as usual for the lenders and the borrowers.
What will be erased is their
credit history which was listed
on the Data Bureau data base
but not their credit.
This data can be used after
complying with the terms and
conditions set by the Reserve
Bank of Fiji which acts as the
regulator for credit reporting
agencies.
The intention of this legislation is to set a legal framework
or guideline under which
credit reporting agencies such
as Data Bureau or any other
such agency should operate.
Previously,
there
was
no legislation or regulatory
mechanism and this had led
to many wrong doings and
malpractices, and caused
many difficulties to the general public.
Privacy is another key element as collecting data and
dissemination of such personal data pertaining to individuals without any legal authority
appears to be a sheer violation of fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution.
It is unfortunate that banks,
hire purchase companies and
other financial institutions are
painting a picture that the Fair
Reporting of Credit Act of 2016
will mean they will lose out
and would face greater risk as
lenders or credit providers.
If anything, with the provisions of having credit reporting agencies operating under
a set guideline, the data which
the lenders and credit providers will receive will be accurate and obtained in a fair
manner.
Emori Gavidi,
Votualevu
I hope they get it done
fast. The maintenance
works causes traffic jams
early in the mornings and
we end up arriving late to
work.
Preeti Chand,
Nadi Town
We should acknowledge
the help of all these expatriates that have come to take
care of the roads. They work
day in and out to fix our roads
which will help in the long
term especially with tourism.
Maca Navukibau,
Legalega
It would help Nadi in
its quest to become much
more of a tourist attraction
and liven up the look of the
town.
These women, victims of Cyclone Winston were remembered during International Womens
Day. Photo: GOOGLE.
Rivers and Creek Safe

The Wainibuka River is free from any
contamination of suspected chemical spill.
This was a result of a truck carrying Sodium Cyanide plunging into the river earlier
this week.
While the truck was retrieved, there was
some concern whether the chemical had
made its way into the river.
Market Vendors Help Victims

Nadi market vendors have banded together in an effort to raise money for Cyclone Winston victims.
Through contributions, the vendors
raised $600 to initially start of fundraising efforts.
With the money, the market vendors
bought groceries, set up a tent opposite the
Nadi Market and began selling food.
PSV Drivers Warned on Late Renewal
Vegetable Prices Out of Control
The Land Transport Authority is once again

reminding Public Service Vehicle permit holders that it is compulsory to renew their permits
at least 28 days prior to its expiry.
As from June1, 2016, any permit application
which does not meet the requirements will be
strictly considered under the LTA Act and Regulation.
The post Cyclone Winston era has come

with new problems for everyone the soaring prices of vegetables.
The Consumer Council of Fiji has highlighted some of the prices of vegetables in
the Suva-Nausori corridor, Navua, Sigatoka
and Labasa.
Market vendors, including those selling
on the roadside have come under the Councils spotlight and are being questioned.
LOCAL NEWS / ADVERTISEMENT
Khan at World Renowned Le Cordon Bleu Institute

A rare opportunity to be
taught and become the best
was how local chef Mohammed Shameer Khan described
studying at world renowned
culinary institute Le Cordon
Bleu in New Zealand.
The 27 year old, based at
the Outrigger Beach Fiji Resort, was the 2016 winner of
the WWF-Pacific Sustainable
Seafood Project scholarship
which was a partnership between WWF New Zealand
and WWF Pacific.
The scholarship according
to WWF-Pacific is aimed at
securing food, fisheries and a
sustainable seafood future in
the country.
Chef Khan is on a three
month study course at Le Cordon Beu where he has been
learning the art of handling,
filleting, storing and portioning local fish.
Cooking is a passion for
me and enhancing my skills at
an excellent French culinary
school is a dream come true,
he said and added the opportunity allowed him to learn
about new challenges in the
food industry.
The chef was awarded
the Fiji Chef of the Year 2015
award and is now ranked as a
Provisional sous chef.
WWF-New Zealand aid coordinator, Sholto Fanifau said
the hospitality sector could
be one of the biggest markets
for fish in Fiji but hotels and
resorts were reluctant to use
fresh inshore fish due to a ack
of knowledge .
We are working with targeted hotels to demonstrate
local sustainable seafood
sourcing, and also working
with fishermen and fishing

communities so they get better value for their seafood,
which they can reinvest into
the management of their fishing grounds, she said.
We want to see a high
demand in the market for sustainable seafood from Fijis
seafood retailers and consumers, and an industry committed to sourcing it wherever
possible.
The primary aim of this
project is securing food, fisheries and a sustainable seafood future in Fiji.
Mohammed Shameer Khan

& Chef de Cuisine Francis
Motta at the Le Cordon Bleu
training kitchen. Photo:
WWF-Pacific.
Students Eager to Learn Korean Culture

DEPTFO NEWS
Ninety students from Suva
and the Western division participated at the Korean Culture Week program at the Fiji
Museum to have a better understanding and appreciation
of the Korean culture.
The Minister for Education,
Heritage and Arts, Hon. Dr Mahendra Reddy while opening
the fourth Korean Culture and
Language Programme said
students will get the opportunity to experience Korean culture by learning basic Korean
language, Taekwondo postures and Korean traditional
musical instruments and Kpop dances.
This is a great opportu-
nity for children during these

school holidays to be transformed with new ideas and
skills about the Korean culture
and values. We have a special
relationship with the Korean
Government since 1971 when
diplomatic ties by the Korean
Government were established
with the Fijian Government,
Minister Reddy said.
The Ministry of Education
has been assisted by Korea
through the provision of scholarships for graduate and postgraduate studies and some
of our students are currently
studying in Korea under those
scholarships.
The program was fully
funded by the Korean Embassy with the Fiji Museum.
Students at the Korean Culture and Language Programme at the Fiji Museum. Photo:
DEPTFO.
LOCAL NEWS
Man Duped
over Taxi
Permit
By CHARLES CHAMBERS
A man was duped into giving $16,000 for a taxi permit.
Today the man has no taxi
permit and $16,000 less to his
name.
The impersonator, disguised as a Land Transport
Authority officer, promised the
man he would arrange a taxi
permit for him.
The LTA has yet again
warned the public not to deal
with people they didnt know
after receiving many complaints from customers who
had lost a fortune in malicious
dealings.
In the most recent case,
a customer was duped into
parting with $16,000 cash by a
person impersonating senior
LTA executive, in the hope of
receiving a taxi permit.
The Authority was deeply
concerned that despite constant awareness and advice,
people were still entertaining
such malicious dealings and
ended up becoming victims of
con artists.
LTA is receiving at least four

complaints per week from people who had lost a fortune in
trying to secure public service
vehicle permits and receive
other LTA favours through people impersonating LTA officers.
LTA Chief Executive Officer
Mr Naisa Tuinaceva (pictured)
has reminding the public that
the Authority will not accept,
process or attend to any request for a PSV permit application because all PSV permits
excluding Rental and Hire are
on freeze since 2011.
We know many people
want a taxi permit and some
gullible people jump at the opportunity when someone offers
to get them one in exchange
for cash, but we are requesting
people to refrain from doing so
as the PSV permits like Taxi and
Minibus are still on freeze, Mr
Tuinaceva said.
Also, LTA does not perform
any business transaction outside its office premises. Any
transaction fee is to be paid at
an official LTA office counter
and the customer is requested
to demand for receipts.
The impersonators usually
Rusiates Passion to Provide the Perfect Tour

By CHARLES CHAMBERS
His smile says it all.
Rusiate Ratakeles passion to provide the ultimate
experience for tourists incorporated with the appreciation of historical heritage,
natural beauty, ecotourism
and human values sets him
apart from competitors.
The Managing Director of
Ratakele Transfers and Tours
has 22 years of experience
in the hospitality industry to
back up his companys credentials, and one which is
bringing him high accolades
from satisfied customers.
Hailing from Vunikodi Village, in Dogotuki, Macuata
and with maternal links to
Ucunivanua, Verata, Tailevu,
the ever-smiling Nadi businessman is taking everything
in his stride.
From a humble beginning
four years ago with one vehicle, Ratakele now has three
with plans to purchase a new
mini-bus in the next month.
He left working for the
tourism catering sector follow his passion - to be involved in a business that
catered for the traveller
in making that travellers
dreams come true and providing the traveller a professional, yet personalised,
travel experience no matter
what the distance.
His career in the hospitality industry began as a
27-year-old Food and Beverage Waiter at the West Gate
Hotel in Nadi in 1980 before
moving to the Tanoa International as a Wine Waiter and
Barman.
Ratakele joined former
well known cruise company
Beachcomber Cruises in
1990 as a Public Relations
Officer before joining Blue
Lagoon Cruises in 1993 as a
Cruise Director onboard the
six vessels during which time
he was elevated to the position of Passenger Services
Supervisor till 2000 with 20
staff under his supervision.
Following this Ratakele
left to join Taralala Dinner
Cruise Boat as the Food and
Beverage Manager until his
first major break in 2002
where he was appointed
Assistant Resort Manager at
Tokoriki Resort in the Mamanuca Group.
In 2003, Ratakele decided
to try something on his own
and managed to acquire the
rights to become the Managing Director of his own
communicate with people on
the phone who are then told
to either deposit the money
in a bank account or send it
through money transfer ser-
10 THE JET - FIJIS FIRST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER
The Managing Director of Ratakele Transfers and Tours Rusiate Ratakele. Photo: CHARLES CHAMBERS.
company with sole rights and
distributor Musashi, a Health
Sports Supplement.
While managing his company, Ratakele added another
feather to his cap in 2006 when
he was appointed Special Assistant to the then Minister of
Multi-Ethnic Reconciliation &
Unity Ratu Meli Saukuru.
Known for his straight talk
and passion for hard work,
Ratakele was appointed to the
Fiji National Rugby League in
2007 where he held the positions of administration officer,
operations manager and team
manager of the Fiji Bati.
By 2011 however Ratakeles priorities in life took on a
new challenge and he decided to throw in the towel and
start his own tourism company, specialising in transfers
and tours from Nadi, the Fiji
Islands.
Ratakele Transfers and
Tours maintain a strong focus
on sustainable tourism and a
commitment to constant forward movement in terms of
service, quality and value for
money.
While managing his company, Ratakele was also Media Officer for the Nadi Rugby
Union and in 2013 also held
the position of Marketing Manvices.
In most cases, the unsuspecting customers only discover that they had been deceived
after going to the LTA office to
ager of The Pacific Institute of

Technology.
Ratakele never minces his
words when asked what the
motivation behind starting his
own business was.
I started my business after I was illegally terminated
by FNRL as Operations Manager, he said.
Twenty two years in the
tourism industry made me
confident to start my own
business as I have the quality to deliver and I am also a
customer oriented person,
Ratakele said.
He said starting off wasnt
that difficult as he had cemented friendship with a lot
of people overseas during his
tenure at FNRL and establishing his business was not that
hard.
At the outset, Ratakele said
trying to build capital was one
of the difficulties he faced but
his determination managed to
turn the books in his favour.
Its about sacrifice and
saving every single dollar, he
said.
Ratakele put down his hard
work and growing reputation
amongst travellers as treating customers like family
providing the friendly family
touch to our work.
collect the permit.
The public has been urged
to follow the legal procedures
when applying for any LTA
services, and to immediately
His clients are sourced

through Social media, Facebook, E-mail and Linkedln.
Ratakel said Fijis tour
companies are doing well except for a few who are giving
their sector a bad name with
providing false information,
high fare rates and lack of professional customer service.
Future Plans?
He plans to venture in hotel accommodation, a sports
company (he has already
name it Fiji Sports All Tours),
tour planning for sevens rugby
and rugby league nines and
rental cars.
With the growing number
of cruise vessels now making Fiji a stopover, Ratakele
is now targeting passengers
from these vessels for sightseeing and tours from the
ports of Suva, Lautoka and
Denarau.
His Vision - To be a vibrant
force in the pacific and the
world of transport and tourism by transporting customer
experiences to new heights
His Mission - RTR Transfers
& Tours is an innovative transport and tourism company
caring for the needs of its customers, employees and affiliates through its commitment
to safety, positive teamwork,
report to the Police or FICAC
anyone suspected of impersonating LTA officers.
So far, the Authority has referred more than 30 cases of
and the friendly delivery of

exceptional products and services.
His focus for Customer
Service - We meet our customers needs by delivering
what they want and doing it
excellently We engage with
our customers to anticipate
and move with their changing
needs We interact with our
customers displaying warmth,
humour and hospitality We
are people-oriented and willing to go the extra mile to deliver excellence We treat our
customers like family providing the family friendly touch
We work as a united and happy team to make the customers day We believe that
happy customers = a positive
day in work = our companys
success
On a parting note, Ratakele
said transfer and tours maintained a strong focus on sustainable tourism and a commitment to constant forward
movement in terms of service,
quality and value for money.
For all you single ladies out
there, this Macuata native,
who adores his son, a soldier
in the British Army and based
in Germany with his daughter
in law and only grandchild, is
still single.
impersonation to the police.
Impersonation is a crime
and those caught will be dealt
with harshly under the laws of
Fiji.
LOCAL NEWS
PSV Drivers Warned on Late Renewal

By CHARLES CHAMBERS
The Land Transport Authority is once again reminding
Public Service Vehicle permit
holders that it is compulsory
to renew their permits at least
28 days prior to its expiry.
As from June1, 2016, any
permit application which
does not meet the requirements will be strictly considered under the LTA Act and
Regulation.
This means that the Authority will refuse all late applications for renewal of PSV
permit.
However the Authority
would like to stress that the
current law is still applicable,
therefore permit holders must
comply with the regulation at
all times and submit their ap-
plication at least 28 days before expiry.

The conditions on the renewal of PSV permits are
clearly outlined in the LTA Act
and Regulation and the Authority also advises the same
to the permit holders when
they visit LTA to get their permits.
However many permit
holders continue to ignore the
advice and they tend to rush
to LTA to renew their permit
on the day it expires, and they
become frustrated when they
are reminded about the compulsory renewal process.
Prior to the renewal of a
PSV permit, a permit holder
is required to meet certain requirements like police clearance, and that can take almost three weeks, hence the
28 day time frame.
Any delay in the renewal

also affects the supply in PSV
services as once the permit
expires, the PSV vehicle cannot be used on the road.
All PSV permits, except
for buses, are valid for three
years; thereafter the permit
holder must renew them. Buses are governed by the Road
Route License (RRL) and permits are valid for a minimum
of 5 years up to 10 years.
The Land Transport Public
Service Vehicle Permits Regulation 2000 clearly stipulates
that:
An application to re-issue a
permit must be made at least
28 days before the permit expires.
All permit holders are encouraged to contact the nearest LTA office if they require
further clarification.
Australian Medics Team Treat

More Than 1700
By CHARLES CHAMBERS
The final Australian medical assistance teams (AusMAT) returned to Australia
earlier this week after treating more than 1700 people
injured during Cyclone Winston.
This followed a rapid deployment to Fiji to respond to
the urgent health needs of the
Fijian people in the wake of
TC Winston.
The experienced AusMAT
teams, comprising doctors,
nurses, paramedics, logisticians, a pharmacist and allied
health staff, worked effectively alongside local Fijian Health
Teams to provide primary
health care to affected communities.
This was the first time a
joint, mobile deployment of
an AusMAT team has been
used.
This new approach has
established a valuable model
for future humanitarian responses.
The combined AusMAT/
Fijian teams treated a total of
1,768 people in the evacuation centres, villages and settlements within the cyclone
affected sub-divisions of Rakiraki, Ba, Ovalau and Tailevu.

The Fijian Minister for
Health and Medical Services, the Hon Jone Usamate,
thanked Australia for the critical assistance provided in the
immediate aftermath of the
cyclone.
Upon departure of the
AusMAT teams, Australia was
pleased to gift FJD 23,000
worth of medicine to the Ministry of Health and Medical
Services.
This would assist with the
ongoing health needs of those
affected by the cyclone.
The medicines include
pain relief, oral rehydration,
and antibiotics to manage a
range of infections and communicable diseases, and will
leave a lasting contribution to
the health of Fijians, long after

the departure of the AusMAT
teams.
Australia has a long history of engagement with the
health sector in Fiji and has
worked in close partnership
with the sector through its bilateral aid program for the last
ten years.
The deployment of the
AusMAT teams were part of
Australias broader FJD 23 million package of humanitarian
assistance provided to Fiji following the devastating impact
of Cyclone Winston.
The Australian Government will continue to work
with the Government of Fiji
to ensure the recovery and
rehabilitation of affected communities.
Taxi drivers who operate from the Nadi International Airport base. Photo: SUPPLIED.
RIGHT: Part of the large consignment of medicine donated by the Australia Government. TOP
RIGHT: Some of the medicines being handed over. Photos: SUPPLIED.
APTC Staff and Students Join Cyclone Relief Work

By CHARLES CHAMBERS
Australia-Pacific Technical
College (APTC) staff and students visited Dranu, Veidrala
and Delaikuku villages along
the north east coast of Viti
Levu to assist in cyclone relief work.
They were able to assist villagers in demolishing
houses that had been partially destroyed, provided relief
packs and administered minor first aid to children who
were hit by flying debris.
The category five cyclone
is considered the strongest
tropical cyclone in Fijis history and probably the strongest tropical cyclone to hit
the southern hemisphere.
APTCs Chief Executive
Officer, Ms Denise OBrien
said APTC was strongly committed to the ongoing support oflocal communities.
APTC Carpentry students assists during their cyclone relief work in Dranu. Photo: SUPPLIED.
I have been very humbled by the willingness of our
staff and students to provide
assistance in such times of
need.Many have taken the
initiative to act and help
people who have lost their

homes and belongings,she
added.
In the Western Division,
seven families were provided with relief supplies.
Most of the families visited

by APTC had lost everything
and were currently staying
with neighbours or in temporary makeshift shelters.
Groups of students had
travelled to remote villages

and settlements in Naitasiri
and Tailevu to help clean up
and provide relief supplies.
At Dranu village, APTC
Carpentry students led by
trainer Sajendra Bali, helped

repair houses that had been
badly damaged by the cyclone.
They also delivered and
installed a water tank that
was kindly donated by
R.C.Manubhai for the relief
effort.
Students also helped
clean up the Suva Special
School and Home of Compassion in Suva.
On 25 February, the APTC
Samoa campus took part in
the Red Cross Fiji Cyclone
Appeal which aims to raise
an amount of $100,000 that
will be matched by the Samoan Government.
The money raised will
be used by the Red Cross
to fund relief workers and
supplies for outlying northwestern communities in Fiji
which were hit the hardest
by Cyclone Winston.
11
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NADI IN PICTURES
13
TOURISM
Economy Anticipates Growth rate to Drop

By CHARLES CHAMBERS
Fijis growth rate is now
expected to be 2.2 percent, a
drop of 1.5 percent from the
forecasted rate following the
Budget announcement.
Fiji was set to have a 3.7
percent growth rate with the
economy heading in the right
direction.
I think this is very positive under the circumstances,
because frankly, if you look
across the board, there will
be an enormous impact on all
our budgets, Attorney General Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum told
the Tourism Action Group.
The group met in Suva
recently to discuss the tourism industrys response to
the devastation caused by TC
Winston.
To put this into perspective, if you consider that 20,000
homes have been damaged
or destroyed and, say, each
household gets $3000 each to
rebuild or repair, we are looking at $60m, he said.
If we help everyone in Fiji
who is on some form of social
welfare whether it is families below the poverty line,
single mothers or the elderly
- we are looking, very conservatively, at another $20m$30m.
If we feed people for one
month, we are looking at an
extra $10m-$15m.
Apart from the 20,000

homes that have been demolished or damaged, sugar
cane production been greatly
affected because of the widespread damage to the crop.
We are also thinking
about those people who grow
vegetables for the various hotels, whose ability to do so will
now be very limited. We are
now going to have to import
that produce from overseas at
higher prices.
Whether you are running
a farm, a hotel, an airline or a
catering business, this is all,
obviously, going to have an
impact on your costs. So this
is a multiplier effect in terms
of the damage that has been
caused.
Mr Khaiyum said the Agricultural sector would be
very hard hit in terms of its
contribution to GDP but the
construction industry was expected to rise.
Since there was a shortage of timber and plywood,
the Government had relaxed
the duties imposed on the importation of timber and other
building materials to make
sure they were readily available during the rebuilding
phase.
He said it was important
for the banks and the tourism industry to work together,
not only because most resorts
and properties were funded
by the banks but also because
Tourists enjoy at a poolside bar at one of the resorts in Fiji. Photo: GOOGLE.
it was critically important for
the banks and the tourism
industry to work together to
maintain the health of the industry.
Tourisms ability to raise
revenue will be obviously limited if we are not able to work
together, he said.
It is very critical that our
financial institutions actually
come on board. This is not
the time to hold back. It is the
time to give. I am not saying

that you should make losses.
But I ask you to position yourself now so that no-one loses
out in the long term.
Mr Khaiyum said tourism
provides 30 to 35 per cent of
Fijis GDP and the momentum
needed to be maintained and
what was needed was to ensure that the momentum of
the industry was kept up.
We need to continue
sending the message out to

our tourism markets that not
all parts of Fiji are affected
and most resorts are up and
running. If we can get that
message out, then people will
come.
We have spoken to other countries and they have
agreed to revise any negative
travel advisories.
These advisories have a
very big psychological impact
for people considering travel.

But it is also in the interests of
the industry to get the message out so that we can get
Fijian tourism up and running
quickly.
He said the cyclone would
have an impact on all our finances, whether it was a new
tar sealed road that we might
have been going to build to a
hotel or a new water reticulation system.
Intercontinental Resort is top 12

Australian family publication Out & About has listed
Intercontinental Fiji Gold Resort & Spa as one of the top
12 family beachfront resorts in
the South Pacific for the 2016
summer.
The hotel said the recognition was testimony to the service delivery towards families
that holiday with the Resort.
To be rated amongst the
top 12 best beaches in the
South Pacific is an incredible
achievement and a testimony
to the staff at InterContinental
Fiji, said the director of Sales
and Marketing Leisure, Hud-
son Mitchell.
It is an amazing feeling
to be rated so highly by our
guests and a great compliment to be appreciated, it
shows we have achieved our
objectives and principals of
IHG principals of Great Hotels
Guest Love which the team
work diligently to maintain
and obtain, he added.
The Resort provides heightened privacy, attention to
details, holiday planners and
butlers for the younger guests.
Elisa Elwin, editor of Out
& About with Kids said InterContinental Fiji Golf Resort
and Spa was a firm favourite
with Australian families.
Set on the pristine white
sands of Natadola Bay Fiji,

it has everything to create
a memorable and fabulous
family holiday. From the Resorts Planet Trekkers Kids
Club, the Spa for Mums and
golf for Dads, incredible 5-star
accommodation and all the
trimmings, it was an easy decision to include the Intercontinental Fiji Golf Resort and
Spa in our Best Pacific Beach
Front Resort category, she
said.
The resort provides services that go beyond the worldrenowned Fijian warmth and
hospitality to give guests authentic, enriching experiences
and insights into the Fijian culture and way of life and
An Intercontinental Resort Fiji hotel worker with young guests of the Resort. Pic-Intercontinental Fiji Golf Resort & Spa. Photo: SUPPLIED.
TOURISM / ADVERTISEMENT
Uprising Beach Resort s Vision for Wedding Market
Uprising Fiji will aim to leverage its profile as an authentic wedding destination for its
customers at the Fiji Wedding
Expo (FWE).
The Pacific Harbour based
resort, wants to expand its
reach in the wedding market
and the Expo is the ideal platform to get this message out.
Uprising has had a big focus on student and sports
groups, dive groups, and the
adventure market.
We have never marketed
the resort as a wedding destination and we are hoping
for more exposure across this
market by participating at the
Fiji Wedding Expo, said Uprising Fijis General Manager,

Mr James Pridgeon.
We want to change the
perception of the market regarding Uprising and let potential customers know that
we indeed do weddings and
offer that authentic friendly
Fijian touch. The expo will
also offer us the platform to
engage with other industry

partners in order to better position ourselves within Fijis
wedding market, he adds.
The Resort has twenty
four rooms, a restaurant and
beach bar, a beachfront and
also a private wedding venue.
The Resort is able to offer
exclusive usage to potential
wedding parties at an afford-
able rate.
This is a bonus to potential guests looking at large
properties where they have
to share facilities with other
guests, Mr Pridgeon said.
At Uprising, they can have
100% exclusive use where
they can book out our entire
resort for less than $8,000.00
FJD! he added.
The Uprising Beach Resort.
Continued from
page 1
We have a great product

- Brand Fiji. Or as our tourism slogan puts it, the place
where happiness finds you.
And it is built around the
unique interaction between
our visitors and the Fijian
people.
Ladies and Gentlemen, the
theme of this years event is
the same slogan I have used
before in a national context Team Fiji. The notion that by
working more closely and effectively together as an industry, as well as a nation, we can
all do better to improve Fijis
ability to compete with other
destinations in what has become a highly competitive
global environment for tourism.
And I ask you all whether
you are from Fiji or overseas
to harness that spirit this
week and the teamwork that
produced it to also make our
industry stronger. This Expo is
not just about securing numbers. It is about forging new
relationships and strengthening existing ones between the
Fijian industry and international buyers.
And we especially value
the friendship of those of you
The GM said the target audience would bethose looking for something a bit different where guests can fill their
days surrounding the weddings with activities in Fijis
Adventure Capital offering
that island experience with
mainland convenience.
who are with us here today

the men and women who
take Fiji to the world and bring
the world to Fiji.
I couldnt be more proud of
the industry as Prime Minister
under the circumstances. And
on behalf of the nation, I want
to warmly thank each and
every one of you for the hard
work that I know has gone
into achieving this wonderful
result.
I want to make a special
appeal to you all to promote
our Adopt a School program
wherever and whenever you
can.
The international support
we are getting for this event
has never been higher. Im
told there are 153 buyers this
year, along with 14 representatives of the foreign media. And
theyll be interacting over the
coming days with the 110 Fijian tourism operators who are
exhibiting at this years event.
Doing business. Strengthening existing partnerships and
forging new ones, all with a
view to moving our industry
forward and making Fiji the
destination of choice for many
more holidaymakers around
the world.
15
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17
LOCAL NEWS / ADVERTISEMENTS
Antibiotics Abuse
Antibiotics being shared amongst family and friends

By CHARLES CHAMBERS
Many people in Fiji use antibiotics for quick relief and
with a mindset that it will cure
every illnesses.
Speaking during the 2016
World Consumer Rights Day
(WCRD) celebrations, Cosumer Council of Fiji Officer
in Charge Bindula Prasad said
such drugs were to cure bacterial infections.
You walk in any home in
Fiji and you will find antibiotics
lying around in the cupboards
as many are accustomed to
resorting to antibiotics for flu,
cold, headache, muscle pain
or stomach ache, Ms Prasad
said.
Consumers are ignorant
about the fact that antibiotics
is useful for bacterial infections, not for viruses such as
cold and flu.
Unfortunately, they continue to spend money on buying antibiotics unnecessarily,
she said.
This is nothing but a sheer
waste of money, let alone fuelling antibiotics resistance,
thus, the creation of superbugs.
If a doctor prescribes antibiotics dose for a patient, then
he or she must complete the
course and not save it for a
later use.
Then there are some who
decide to dish out antibiotic
dose to a sick family member
or workmate. Sharing antibiotics is not a healthy practice, as
Particpants of the World Consumer Rights Day celebrations at the Tanoa Hotel in Suva. Photo: SUPPLIED.
it can have side effects. Only
your doctor can prescribe antibiotics.
Ms Prasad said consumers also demand their doctors
to prescribe antimicrobial or
antibiotics many a times or
purchase antibiotics over-the-
counter, ensuring they have

antibiotic supply at home for
quick fix.
Patients who visit their
GPs must stop demanding antibiotics.
In fact, consumers must
ask, Do I really need this, or
should we let nature take its

course?
It is widely known that
some patients pick up a fight
with their doctors or think that
the doctors who dont give antibiotics are not the best.
This year, the WCRD theme
is Stop Misuse of Antibiotics.

Ms Prasad said the Council
had derived this theme from
the broader theme set by the
Consumers International, Antibiotics off the Menu, who are
campaigning with Members
around the world for fast food
companies to make a global

commitment to stop the sale
of meat raised with the routine use of antibiotics.
The Council, however, has
adapted CIs theme to suit Fijis situation where antibiotics
is abused by consumers and
also by medical practitioners.
The issues are inappropriate use and prescribing of antibiotics, which is causing the
development of resistance,
she said.
Antibiotics is commonly
perceived as a miracle-drug
in Fiji as is elsewhere in the
world.
The Council has urged
Medical Practitioners, particularly, the GPs to exercise responsibility when prescribing
antibiotics.
Medical
practitioners
should only prescribe antimicrobial/antibiotic dose if their
patients genuinely need it,
she said.
Without responsible prescribing, dispensing and consumption of antibiotics, resistance to antibiotics will not be
able to be contained.
The medical fraternity has
to gather courage to say NO to
writing prescriptions for those
patients who walk into their
clinics with flu, cold, cough,
headache, wanting a prescription for antibiotics.
Ms Prasad said doctors
must explain the reasons for
not prescribing antibiotics to
the patients who keep demanding for it.
NEWS
Prime Ministers speech at the 2015 Fiji Sports Awards
The Honourable Minister

and Assistant Minister for Sport,
The Chair of the Fiji Sports
Council,
The sponsors of the 2015 Fiji
Sports Awards,
Sportsmen and women,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Bula vinaka and a very good
evening to you all.
Nothing brings us together
more as a nation than our mutual love of sport. So Im delighted to be here again with you all
tonight as we celebrate the annual Fiji Sports Awards.
I want to begin by paying tribute to our Rugby Sevens team,
who have lifted the spirits of the
entire nation at a very challenging time with their magnificent
win in Hong Kong. Vinaka vakalevu Ben Ryan. Vinaka vakalevu
to every single player!
(applause)
All over the country, people
were able to set aside their worries for a few precious moments
as we cheered on our boys. I
dont know whether you saw
it but there was a wonderful
photo on Facebook of people
watching the game on a television set perched high on a hill
over the Yasawas. It captured

perfectly the Fijian passion for
rugby and its importance in our
national life.
God knows we needed
something to distract us after the trauma of the last few
weeks. And our Sevens team
delivered in spades with a nail
biting, thrilling display of the
skills that have made them the
best Sevens side in the world.
Now more than ever, every
Fijian joins me in extending to
them our warmest congratulations. And you go on to Singapore and beyond with the admiration, support and best wishes
of the entire nation.
Ladies and Gentlemen, as
you all know, our focus over the
past few weeks eight weeks
tomorrow, in fact has been to
provide assistance to the many
thousands of Fijian whose lives
were upended by Tropical Cyclone Winston. I have made it
my principal task to get out into
the affected areas to meet as
many of these people as possible face to face. To listen to
their concerns, give them what
encouragement and assistance
I can and formulate a comprehensive government response
that meets their needs.
We are working around the
clock to implement our Help For
Homes program and our Adopt
a School Program the two key
initiatives that make up the first
stage of a rebuilding process
that will take many months and
years. But I make no apology
for taking time out tonight to be
here to celebrate the achievements of our sportsmen and
women. Because not only do
your accomplishments make
the lives of every Fijian just a little bit brighter. You are symbols
for the rest of the nation of the

vital importance at this time of
two things you all know well
teamwork and perseverance in
the face of adversity.
Ladies and Gentlemen, Winston has been a setback for
Fiji, not a defeat. Team Fiji has
regrouped quickly after that setback. We are united, we are focussed and we are determined.
And we intend to move forward
together to rebuild our nation - a
Fiji bigger and better than before.
And we look to our sportsmen and women for inspiration
in this, one of the darkest periods in our history. Because each
of you reminds us that with unwavering determination and
unrelenting effort, anything is
possible. And for that the nation
salutes you. And thanks you.
Ladies and gentlemen, that
is the beauty of our national
sports. That even in the midst
of tragedy, our athletes can lift
our spirits. The best of our men
and women representing Fiji
on the field bring us together
as a country and demonstrate
to our people what teamwork
and hard work can accomplish.
Their actions motivate us, their
victories make us proud and
their character on and off the
field sets a standard that inspires us.
As we turn our focus to the
Rio Olympic Games in August,
many of you here tonight will
have the same honour of competing for Fiji. It brings me great
pleasure to announce that Fiji
will be sending up to 84 athletes
and officials to the 2016 Olympics the largest and most talented contingent in our nations
history.
Since I last was here last
year, weve had some very impressive outings at the Pacific

Games in Papua New Guinea,
our Rugby Sevens team reclaimed the World Rugby Sevens World Series Title, and our
Under 17 Cricket and Football
teams made their respective
Junior World Cup qualifiers. So
lets give a warm round of applause to all our athletes and
their accomplishments over the
past year.
(Applause)
Im especially proud because my Government has
increased support across the
board for our athletes and for
sporting events in Fiji and we
are now seeing the great results.
Weve substantially upped the
2016 Sports Grants to cater for
the Rio Olympics, Fijis Under
19 World Cup Crickets Team
and our hosting of the Oceania
Weightlifting and Swimming
Tournaments in Suva, both of
which are qualifying events for
Rio.
Here in Fiji, we are blessed
with a lot of athletic talent. It is
Governments job to make sure
that talent is recognised. That
everyone who has the ability to
represent Fiji on the world stage
also has the opportunity to do
so. That is why we have also
launched an ambitious plan to
construct new sports facilities
and grounds in less developed
parts of Fiji and upgrade our existing facilities.
In the 2016 Budget, we have
provided for the construction
of ten new rural playing fields.
Weve provided two million
dollars for a new sporting complex in Kadavu and three million dollars for the upgrade of
the Fiji Sports Councils FMF
Gymnasium. And here in Suva,
we are currently undertaking a

seven million dollar redevelopment of the Albert Park grounds,
plus a magnificent new stadium
that will again bring world class
sports back into the centre of
our capital.
We can also look forward to
a new 500,000 dollar stadium at
the Valelevu Grounds in Nasinu
and a three million dollar completion of Churchill Park and Botanical Gardens Swimming pool
in Lautoka. Weve also provided
funding for Johnny Singh Park in
Lami, Garvey Park in Tavua and
Ganilau Park in Savusavu.
Ladies and gentlemen, the
cost of these projects amounts
to approximately 17 million dollars. A worthy investment that
will keep Fijians moving and
healthy, and continue to cultivate our athletic talent.
Weve also laid the groundwork and provided funding for
a number of international tournaments to be hosted in Fiji. In
the wake of TC Winston, weve
sent the message to our friends
across the globe that the best
way to help Fiji is by coming
to visit. And these events present excellent opportunities for
them to do just that, and help
increase our tourism and keep
growing our economy.
We have also increased our
funding for the hosting of sporting events in Fiji. The budgetary allocation covers 16 events,
such as the Fiji International
Golf Tournament and the much
anticipated Super Rugby match
between the Chiefs and the Crusaders on July 1st, the first of its
kind in Fiji.
These events showcase our
natural beauty to the world and
demonstrate our capacity to attract professional and casual
athletes from all over the globe.

That means more tourism, more
money in our economy and
more jobs for ordinary Fijians
in our sports tourism industry.
And, of course, more opportunities for the whole country to get
back on its feet and put Winston
behind us.
So, ladies and gentlemen,
the sporting industry in Fiji is
strong and it is growing. I urge
our business community and
corporate sponsors to continue
to support our sports teams and
take full advantage of the vast
potential our sporting sector has
to offer.
I would like to, again, commend all of our athletes for their
dedication and success over
the past year. Youve done a
wonderful job of putting Fiji on
the map and demonstrating the
tenacity and character of the Fijian people. The Fijian spirit.
Whether you are on the field
or off, the eyes of the nation
will always be upon you. Fijian
men, women and children look
to you as role models. And that
is a privilege you should always
respect and a responsibility you
should always uphold. Because
when you put in the hours of
preparation and do your best
in competition, every Fijians
swells with pride and feels motivated to also do their best for
Fiji.
Congratulations again to our
athletes and especially tonights
winners. We all celebrate what
you have accomplished and
look forward to everything you
have yet to achieve. May God
bless you all and may God bless
our beloved Fiji.
Vinaka vakalevu. Thank you.
Presidents speech at the Duke of Edinburgh International Award Presentations
Honourable
Lieutenant
Colonel Bale Laisenia TUITUBOU, Minister of Youth and
Sports
The Permanent Secretary
for Youth and Sports, Ms Allison
Burchell
The Permanent Secretary
for Education, Mr Iowane Tiko
The Principal of Xavier College, Brother George Vazhayil
Members of the Business
Community
Senior Government Officials
Principals and Teachers
Award recipients and students
Members of the Media
Invited Guests
Ladies and Gentlemen
--------------------------------------Good Morning, Namaste, A
Salam Alekum and Ni Sa Bula
Vinaka.
Thank you for kindly inviting
me and I am so delighted to be
part of this auspicious occasion
the celebration and awarding
of bronze, silver and gold medals to 150 Duke of Edinburghs
International Award participating students from eight schools
in the Western Division.
Today, we will also award
certificates to teachers in recognition of their tireless effort
and dedication in ensuring
these students achieved the required standards in the relevant
Awards.
The awardees this morning
are joining the ranks of around
8 million young people who
are participants in the Award
world-wide. You are part of an
internationally recognised youth

achievement award adopted in
over 140 countries.
The Award programme continues to grow steadily since
its inception in Fiji in the early
1960s. In fact, I am happy to
say that I have been involved
with the programme, and I am
extremely pleased to note that
it has gained popularity among
schools in Fiji - with more than
2000 students having participated in the Award programme
to-date.
I am also glad to note that
the Ministry of Youth and Sports
was recognised as a National
Award Operator in 2013 and
signed a National Award Conditional Licence with The Duke of
Edinburgh International Award
Foundation. I would like to commend the Minister for Youth and
Sports, Honourable Laisenia Tuitubou, and his Ministry for their
commitment towards meeting
all the requirements to be granted this Full-Licence.
We look forward to the outcome of the review scheduled
for July this year; I hope the Ministry successfully implements
plans to expand the Award
further for the benefit of young
Fijians.
I would also like to mention the strong partnership that
exists between the Ministry of
Youth and Sports and the Ministry of Education, Heritage & Arts
and National Archives. Their
ongoing partnership and cooperation is key to the success of
the Awards scheme in Fiji. On
this note, I wish to express my
hope that they will cooperate as
closely in addressing the noncommunicable diseases threat
to our nation we need everyone of us to become more physically active in order to prevent
increased obesity, heart disease
and diabetes among others.
Teachers, students and volunteers from participating schools
must be commended for their
full participation in this extracurricular Award programme.
No doubt it has had a huge impact on participating students

and your communities.
The Duke of Edinburghs International Award globally has
benefitted millions of participating young people between
the ages of 14 to 24 years. Fijis
adoption of the Award stems
from our nations desire to empower young Fijians with positive values, skills and attributes
that are needed to meet the
challenges of their generation.
Governments introduction
of the Free Tuition, Free Textbooks and Free Bus Fare for all
Fijian students like this Award
program reaffirms this desire
towards empowering and securing the future of every young
Fijian. Programs like the Duke
of Edinburghs International
Award complements this effort
ensuring that young Fijians have
the character and resilience to
contribute positively to our nations development.
Students and medal recipients, Ladies and Gentlemen,
the Award, is most important in
the shaping and development
of ones character at a young
age. The service component
of the Award teaches you simple but very important values
such as patience, tolerance
and compassion. The need to
overcome ignorance, prejudice,
apathy and fear are all attributes
that are needed for a modern
Fiji. Our country needs young
people who can make a real
difference to the lives of others,
young people who can accept
the responsibility of commitment to others; people who
can lead and contribute to the
greater good.
We would like to commend
and congratulate those young
people who will be receiving
their awards today because they
have proven that they have got
what is required to be a good
leader. These are the qualities
that are cultivated through the
Duke of Edinburgh International
Award. Recently Severe Tropical
Cyclone Winston that wreaked

havoc nation-wide had certainly
tested our resolve as a nation.
Our resilience as a nation
and as Fijians proved that when
we work together and care for
each other, we can prevail and
become stronger as a nation.
Another important aspect of
the Award and one that I personally can relate to is the adventurous journey. The important lessons to be learnt such as
working as part of the team and
learning to make real decisions
while accepting real consequences are important parts of
the Award. Just as important is
ensuring the whole team comes
through together and this is
equally applicable to those who
have suffered from the Cyclone
as we have much work to do
to help our fellow Fijians who
have suffered rebuild their lives.
Through its non-competitive but
adventurous activities and challenges you are able to cultivate
skills such as leadership, teamwork and co-operation. These
competencies
shape
well
rounded personalities needed
to strengthen and help you in
times of lifes adversities and
there will be many.
The Award is also about selfdiscovery. The skills section
of the award builds in young
people the desire for personal
growth but not to be arrogant
and insensitive to the feelings
and need of others. In discovering new abilities and improving existing talents and skills
through the Award, we are able
to cultivate our innate drive to
become competent and solve
problems. With success in overcoming seemingly insurmountable challenges, the desire to
achieve is strengthened. Contemporary resilience research
reaffirms similar values that the
Award cultivates to help young
people have a better sense
of purpose, achievement and
pride in belonging to a diverse
and unique community such as
ours.
Fijian youths comprise 36%

of our national population and
make up 46% of Fijis workforce.
The fact is youth do make up
the majority of our community.
Therefore, the demand today is
that we need to listen and collaborate with you to bring about
positive changes in our society.
This means encouraging new
and non-traditional means of
political and civic engagement.
We need to provide for you
an environment that nourishes
and nurtures active participation in volunteerism, sport and
other activities that enable
young people to develop their
knowledge, skills and maturity.
These Ministries Youth and
Education - cannot achieve that
alone. We have to collaborate
and support you as you develop
your sense of self-worth, creating a greater awareness of social
and global issues, and encourage empathy and responsibility
towards others as we continue
to build Fiji based on democracy and accountability.
Youths are prone to drug and
alcohol abuse as you test new
boundaries and endeavour to
cope with dysfunctional and
sometimes violent or abusive
family life, poverty and crime.
Young people with poor social skills and low educational
achievement are at greater risk,
because they may find it harder
to resist negative influences
within their peer group. And for
this very reason I fully support
the Ministry of Youth and Sports
mission of extending this Award
programme beyond the boundaries of the schools in the future
and if possible engage religious
youth groups, village youth
groups and many more.
The Awards non-formal
educational model can provide an alternative way for
young people in the rural and
maritime areas and even in the
prison system many of whom
are not in formal education to
gain a sense of self-esteem and
achievement. We must coordi-
nate our efforts and innovative

ideas towards securing the future of our youths today.
Ladies and Gentlemen, our
youths are not only the leaders
of tomorrow they are leaders,
entrepreneurs, students, workers, caregivers and problem
solvers of today. Support at all
levels is crucial for an individual
youth to excel in life. They need
to be surrounded by positive
thoughts in an environment that
should appreciate and fully utilise their hidden potential and
capabilities. I believe that all
youths are uniquely capable
of achieving something great.
The onus is on communities,
schools, churches, villages,
families and services providers
to work collectively towards
youth development.
To the Bronze medal recipients, you have two more steps
to go while the silver medallists have just a notch before
you receive your gold medals
like your peers today. May you
all grow with the Award program, with more maturity and
success. I congratulate you all
- especially the Gold Medallists.
A Gold Medal recipient, I have
been told, will travel to London in May and join thousands
of Award participants who will
be awarded their Gold Medals
at Buckingham Palace. What a
privilege DEAI has provided this
lad and I also wish him the best.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Teachers and officials from the
Ministries, let us continue to
dedicate our efforts towards
nurturing our young people.
They deserve it and Fiji demands it.
I wish you well and every
success in your studies and future endeavours.
Thank you very much. Vinaka Vakalevu. Dhanyavaad,
and May Almighty God bless our
beloved nation and all Fijians.
19
BUSINESS NOTICE BOARD
ADVERTISEMENT
21
BAYLEYS CORAL COAST 7S SUPPLEMENT
Champs Labasa to host Fiji FACT Winston has been
a setback for Fiji,

not a defeat: PM
By ANUSHIL KUMAR
Reigning champions Labasa is set to host the 2016 Vodafone Fiji Football Association
Cup Tournament (Fiji FACT).
Fiji FA president Rajesh
Patel confirmed Subrail Park
as the venue and said a tournament was long due to be
hosted in the North.
Yes as I promised during
Labasas Fiji FACT winning
celebration last year that we
will bring the tournament to
the North, he told Fiji FA Media.
Im happy that the board
has accepted the proposal to
bring the tournament there.
I can confirm the pool
matches for the 2016 Vodafone Fiji FACT will be played
in the Friendly North and the
venue for the semifinals and
final will be decided after
looking at the teams making
the semifinalists.
If Labasa or Dreketi
makes it to the semifinal who
knows the semifinal will be
again played at Subrail Park.
By ANUSHIL KUMAR
Patel said this is good news

for people in Labasa as they
want to witness a tournament
of such magnitude.
Im sure the Northerners
will be happy with the deci-
sion of Fiji FA board and will

be out in numbers to support
their teams.
Labasa ended its 15-year
drought after beating Rewa
2-1 in the final last year at
Prince Charles Park in Nadi.

The 2016 Vodafone Fiji
FACT first round is scheduled
to be played from June 17-19.
Jacks Seals the Deal with Nadi Rugby

By ANUSHIL KUMAR
Jacks of Fiji once again
came on board to support
Nadi Rugby Union for its 2016
domestic season.
Chief Executive Officer
Bhavin Khatri officially announced a sponsorship of
$29,500 in cash and $30,000 in
kind for the team.
Bhavin said Nadi Rugby
has proved to be very resilient in its conquest for playing
high level rugby and Jacks
of Fiji feels it is imperative to
continue its sponsorship to
help Nadi Rugby achieve its
potential.
We also have an additional incentive for the players and
team officials, Jacks is committing to give a $10,000 cash
bonus for a win in the Skipper
Cup and a further $10,000 for a
win in the Farebrother Trophy
Challenge, he said.
With rugby getting very
competitive both locally and
internationally, support of the
local players is very important
for their development and future, a fact which Jacks of Fiji
fully appreciates.
Bhavin said Jacks of Fiji
aims to create awareness and
Nadi Rugby Union officials together with Jacks of Fiji management during the signing of
the re-sponsorship at the Farmers Club in Nadi. Photo: MARGARET NAQIRI.
Winston has been a setback for Fiji, not a defeat.

These were the words of
prime minister Voreqe Bainimarama during the Fiji Sports
Awards at Vodafone Arena on
Friday, April 15.
Team Fiji has regrouped
quickly after that setback. We
are united, we are focussed
and we are determined, the
PM said.
Bainimarama said they intend to move forward together to rebuild our nation - a Fiji
bigger and better than before.
And we look to our sportsmen and women for inspiration in this, one of the darkest
periods in our history.
Because each of you reminds us that with unwavering determination and unrelenting effort, anything is
possible.
And for that the nation salutes you. And thanks you.
He said this is the beauty of
our national sports that even
in the midst of tragedy, our
athletes can lift our spirits.
The best of our men and
women representing Fiji on
the field bring us together as
a country and demonstrate to
our people what teamwork
and hard work can accomplish. Their actions motivate
us, their victories make us
proud and their character on
and off the field sets a standard that inspires us.
As we turn our focus to
the Rio Olympic Games in August, many of you here tonight
will have the same honour of
competing for Fiji. It brings me
great pleasure to announce
that Fiji will be sending up to
84 athletes and officials to the
2016 Olympics the largest
and most talented contingent
in our nations history.
Vodafone Premier
League actions
Photos by ANUSHIL KUMAR
encourage more people in the

community to engage in rugby
and other physical activities to
enjoy the health benefits.
It is of great importance
to us that local communities
are at the heart of our developments, and that those living
Labasas Edwin Sahayam in control against Lautoka

during the Vodafone Premier League encounter at Prince
Charles Park in Nadi. Photo: ANUSHIL KUMAR.
and working nearby can enjoy

the benefits we can bring to a
community, via our developments. Being involved with
organisations like Nadi Rugby
Union helps us to understand
the needs of the community
and strengthens our links with
them, he stated.
As an official sponsor of
Nadi Rugby Union, Jacks of Fiji
will be the presenting full sets
of attire for the team together
with Adidas gear and cash as
part of the sponsorship.
Lautokas Peni Finau heads for possession against Labasas Leone Damudamu during the Vodafone Premier
League encounter at Prince Charles Park in Nadi. Lautoka
won 3-1. Photo: ANUSHIL KUMAR.
Labasa goalkeeper Akuila Mateisuva tussles with Lautokas Dave Radrigai during the Vodafone Premier League encounter
at Prince Charles Park in Nadi. Photo: ANUSHIL KUMAR.
LOCAL SPORTS
Marist Bounce Back in Style
By ANUSHIL KUMAR
Marist
Brothers
High
School bounced back to winning ways in style.
Missing out on the last two
editions of the Coca-Cola
Games, the boys from Flagstaff did not leave any stones
unturned as they dominated
the boys division at ANZ Stadium last week.
Defending
champions
Natabua High School gave
the boys a run during the first
two days of the competition,
however the final day turned
sweet for Marist.
Marist won 17 gold, seven
silver and 10 bronze medals
while Natabua won 12 gold,
12 silver and four bronze medals in the boys division.
Marist manager Sikeli
Kalouniviti said the victory
was indeed sweet.
Everyone is feeling very
grateful in the Marist camp.

The boys deserve the win.
We dedicate this win to
the boys themselves for putting in the hard effort, commitment and sacrifices they
made, we dedicate it to all
the support staff, coaches, the
parents and all those involved
in the preparation of this team
and the support during the
games, Kalouniviti said.
Tailevu schools Ratu Kadavulevu School and Queen Victoria School finished third and
fourth respectively.
RKS won six gold, six silver
and 10 bronze medals while
QVS managed to grab six
gold, six silver and five bronze
medals.
Suva Grammar School finished fifth with 2 gold, 4 silver
and 6 bronze medals.
The 2016 Coca-Cola Games
were played on 28-30 April at
the ANZ Stadium in Suva.
We are back ... Marist Brothers High School athletes in jubilation after winning the 2016 Coca-Cola Games boys division.
Photo: FIJIVILLAGE.COM
Womens Contribution in McKee Names Extended Squad

Sports Recognised
By ANUSHIL KUMAR
By ANUSHIL KUMAR
The Fiji Volleyball Federation has acknowledged the
womens contribution in the
development of sports in the
country.
President Elesi Ketedromo
commended all the females
who have come forward in
emerging volleyball in Fiji over
the past years.
Fiji volleyball would like
to acknowledge and thank
all our female sports administrators, athletes, volunteers
and supporters for their contribution and commitment towards the development of the
sport of volleyball in Fiji over
the past years, Elesi stated.
As we join in celebration
with the world to celebrate International Womens day, our
thoughts and prayers are also
with all those families who
have lost their loved ones during tropical cyclone Winston.
She said sports have had

its challenges in terms of increasing womens participation in the clubs and community level.
However, Fiji Volleyball has
been working with its affiliated members to address and
overcome some of the challenges in order to increase
women and girls participation
in the sport.
We need to empower our
women and girls to get moving and to embrace physical
activity and push past their
limits.
We know that when girls
participate in sports, they develop the leadership skills to
excel in school, at home and
in their communities.
The courage, confidence
and character gained through
physical activity are the very
tools girls need to become the
strong leaders of tomorrow.
Pacific Volleyball Part-
nership program manager

Semaima Lagilagi believes
teamwork from the local volleyball community would
help increase participation for
women and girls.
With the IWD 2016 Theme
PledgeforParity - Fiji Volleyball can be commended
for taking steps in promoting
gender equality in the sport
through its current policies.
We still have a lot a long way
to go but we are slowly progressing.
Sports is increasingly recognized as a powerful tool for
individual and community development.
We would also like to acknowledge the government of
the day, our key stakeholders
and our international partners
for their assistance and contribution towards the volleyball
programs in the communities, Lagilagi concluded.
The Vodafone Flying Fijians

extended squad for the 2016
June Tests has been made.
Coach John Mckee said
the June tests will be an important and challenging Test
Series for the team.
I am pleased to announce
the following extended squad
for the Flying Fijians June Test
Series, McKee said.
The following players
have been selected based on
playing form shown across
various Professional Competitions in Europe and Super
Rugby as well as the Telecom
Fiji Warriors in the Pacific Rugby Challenge.
The June Tests will be a
very important and challenging Test Series for us.
The Tonga and Samoa
Tests will be played for the
Pacific Nations Cup and form

the first stage of the RWC 2019
qualifying process for the Pacific Teams.
Georgia will tour the Pacific for a three test series for the
first time and, based on their
RWC performance and recent
winning of the European Nations Cup will be a challenging
opposition.
The
final
28-member
squad selection for The Flying Fijians June Tests will be
made later this month.
Players may be added to
this extended squad at any
time, he added.
The selected players for
the extended squad are:
Leeroy Atalifo, Isei Colati,
Mesake Doge, Taniela Koroi,
Campese Maafu, Peni Ravai,
Manasa Saulo, Joeli Veitayaki, Sunia Koto, Jale Sassen,
Tuapati Talemaitoga, Vili Vei-
koso, Tevita Cavuati, Sikeli

Nabou, Leone Nakarawa,
Api Ratuniyarawa, Savenaca
Tabakanalagi, Mataiasi Ucutabua, Naulia Dawai, Johnny
Dyer, Akapusi Qera, Eremasi
Radrodro, Malakai Ravulo,
Nemia Soqeta, Netani Talei,
Dominiko
Waqaniburotu,
Peceli Yato, Nemia Kenatale,
Nikola Matawalu, Henry Seniloli, Serupepeli Vularika,
Seremaia Bai, Sevanaia Galala, Gabby Lovobalavu, Eroni
Vasiteri, Albert Vulivuli, Ben
Volavola, Vereniki Goneva,
Jone Macilai, Benito Masilevu,
Kini Murimurivalu, Nemani
Nadolo, Waisea Nayacalevu,
Timoci Nagusa, Alifereti Raka,
Savenaca Rawaca, John Stewart, Metuisela Talebula, Asaeli
Tikoirotuma, Joshua Tuisova,
Samisoni Viriviri, Watisoni
Votu, Nacani Wakaya
Olympians Tour Brazil

The Vodafone national
under 23 side in action
against Atletico during
their first match of
their Brazil tour. Photos: AVIKASH CHAND /
FIJI FA MEDIA.
Nemani Nadolo is also named in the extended squad. Photo: STUFF.CO
President Congratulate Sevens Gladiators

By ANUSHIL KUMAR
By ANUSHIL KUMAR
The national under-23 side
departed for Brazil in preparation for the Rio Olympic
Games in August.
Coach Frank Farina says
facing a club like Atletico is
the ideal preparation for the
Olympics.
He said the Brazilian players are notable for their skills
and their ability to play oneon-one.
It will be a completely
new level to what these (Fijians) boys are used to, he
said.
Farina believes these over-
seas trips (including the Spain

tour earlier this year) are a
part of a steep learning curve
for his players.
The boys that went on the
Spain trip will be more experienced and will have a better
idea of what to expect, he
says.
Thats not to say that it will
help, but thats why we come
on tours like this, to gain experience.
Every player in our opponents side will be very competent on the ball and they
will be well structured.
Its going to be another
experience and this is exactly
why we come to places like

Spain and now Brazil.
The Fiji Olympic team will
play two matches against
Atletico Paranaense before
taking on Club Figueirense, a
side with three players from
the Brazil national U-20 team.
They will finish their tour
against Clube Parana which is
second in the State competition.
Meanwhile,
the
Alvin
Singh-captained side lost its
opening match to Atletico 4-0,
however coach Farina said it
is a good learning experience
for the Olympians.
The President of Fiji His

Excellency Jioji Konrote congratulated the Vodafone Fiji
Sevens team for winning the
Las Vegas Cup and bringing
smiles to the people of Fiji
after the severe Tropical Cyclone Winston took away the
grins.
President Konrote commended the win in a letter
to Ben Ryan applauding the
teams gallant performance at
the Sam Boyd Stadium in Las
Vegas.
In the letter, he wrote:
I write to convey my personal gratitude as well as
those of the people of Fiji for
the National Sevens Teams
scintillating and hugely inspiring performance at the Las
Vegas Tournament.
This win is a particularly

sweet gift for Fiji and will
serve to uplift the spirits of our
people as we work towards
rebuilding and rehabilitating
our communities from the
devastating effects of Severe
Tropical Cyclone Winston.
The take-home message from
this experience is to remain
focused and positive until the
final whistle. That the team
maintained its composure to
win the Game is a significant
encouragement to our people
here at home to continue to
soldier on with more determination to do well in life.
The
National
Sevens
Team has demonstrated that
as a Nation, united in our
quest to overcome the hardships, we are indeed Stronger
than Winston.
I would like to wish the
Team a successful outing not

only in this coming weekends
tournament in Vancouver, but
also for the rest of the World
Sevens Series especially as
we build up to the Olympic
Games in Rio in August. Here
too, I have every confidence
that your professional and
meticulous planning, in addition to the Teams commitment, Fiji will achieve the anticipated result.
Please accept also my
profound appreciation for the
manner in which you have
coached the National Team
and molded it into an exceptionally and consistently highachieving unit. Kindly convey
to Captain Osea Kolinisau and
the rest of the Team including
the management and technical staff, Fijis collective gratitude and best wishes.
23
Page 22
Vodafone
Premier
League actions
MAY 2016. ISSUE 81
Page 23
McKee Names
Extended
squad
Champions Again!
And we did it again... Jasper Williams High School athletes celebrate after winning the 2016 Coca-Cola Games girls division at ANZ Stadium in Suva. Photo: FIJIVILLAGE.COM
By
ANUSHIL
KUMAR
Jasper Williams High School once again
proved its worth in the 2016 Coca-Cola
Games at the ANZ Stadium in Suva.
This was after the Lautoka-based school
successfully defended the Girls division title
for the fourth consecutive year.

There was stiff competition between the
Jasperians and rivals Adi Cakobau School as
the Westerners were stretched to the wire before getting a breather.
Jasper outclassed ACS in the silver and
bronze tally after both teams scooped 15 gold
medals each.
With the overall girls division title at stake,
Jasper grabbed a total of 19 silver and eight
bronze medals to claim the winner while ACS
settled for second place having eight silver and
six bronze in bag.
Jasper Williams High School manager Melisio Camaitoga was ecstatic after the win and
revealed their winning secret in joy.

He said the team, being humble and focused on defending the title, also received
coaching techniques from the boys champions
Marist Brothers High School.
Yes, we got a lot of help from the Marist old
boys.
One of our coaches said, we dont know,
we ask because we have to be humble, so that
was our theme humbleness was what got
us the win, Camaitoga told Times Sport.
Camaitoga also gave his heartfelt appreciation to all those behind the teams success.
We congratulate all the schools especially
ACS and for the good fight they gave us and
thank our major sponsors, KBL, Digicel, FIJI

Water, parents and teachers association,
JWHSOG, the school administrators, principal, vice-principal and assistant principal,
the school staff and the students for the support that they have given us.
It was not easy especially the disaster
that they went through, Cyclone Winston,
the flood, that came after that and most of
our girls were affected by that but they stood
up to the occasion.
Meanwhile, Marist Brothers High School
won the overall boys after missing out on
last two occasions.

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Inside

Consumers must still pay

Jacks sponsor Nadi Rugby

FIJIS FIRST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Fiji is the place where happiness

ward together and strengthening

Fiji - the way the world should be

FROM THE DESK

Cyclone Winston came

Whilst inside, the house

ON THE BRIGHT SIDE

Market Vendors Help Victims

Eye Drops Prices too Expensive

pharmacists to guide the consumers by giving them the

THE JET - FIJIS FIRST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

The Council also conducted a random check at some

Association treasurer Gangamma Devi said once it was

kiraki, Tailevu and other areas

THE JET - FIJIS FIRST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

FCLC to Learn from New Caledonia Empty Shelves in

Four regional agricultural

70 years of experience, according to FCLC media report.

ment regional projects to develop technical and economic

their agricultural insurance

Bank Hailed as a Key Partner for

making not only our visitors

UNICEF Focuses on Children

banking needs, Mr Bradley

in use as evacuation centres.

THE JET - FIJIS FIRST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

rooms have been supplied

ered milk, dhal, potatoes, noodles, salt, tea leaf, breakfast

as a key partner for the elevation of the tourism industry in

in the event and the industry,

little cousin these days; he is

witness the labour of these

Once Upon a Time

UNICEF Pacific Representative Dr. Karen Allen. Photo: SUPPLIED.

Buddy commends the efforts of all those involved in

Plenty of shopping, some

Eye Drops Prices too Expensive

Organic Farming to Benefit Pacific Youths

Youths try their hand out at farming. Photo: SUPPLIED.

Vegetable Prices Out of Control

An earlier picture of a vegetable stall at Labasa Market. Photo: SUPPLIED.

The Council conducted

kin was selling at $5 apiece,

The Council also noticed

The public has been urged

THE JET - FIJIS FIRST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

Tourism Studies Get Boost

Providing each other with

While signing the MOU

lence in Tourism and Hospitality Education.

ting more research in various

University students Search for

nations: infectious diseases

Reef growths such as these could provide new drugs to cure

Academic Freedom Crucial, says USP VC

THE JET - FIJIS FIRST COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER

the university, than those staff

had the complete freedom

rolling out of five-year contract