AGP Executive Report

Constitution Debate: The Fijian Media Association will host a public forum on the Constitution Amendment Bill this Thursday at 7pm at FNU Nasinu, with six party leaders on the panel. Human rights commissioner Chantelle Khan says women must have a real voice in constitutional discussions and decision-making. Education: More than 8,500 Year 13 students begin exams tomorrow at 174 centres nationwide; Education Minister Aseri Radrodro says results do not define their futures. Fiji on the Culinary Stage: Fijian chefs earned top honours at the Global Chefs Challenge Pacific Rim semi-finals, including wins for Kelepi Lalawailevu and young chef Frances Wakeham. Culture and Heritage: Fiji-linked author Sheryl Prakash’s debut children’s book, inspired by her late Nani, traces her family’s journey from India to Fiji and New Zealand and celebrates grandparents’ role in passing on culture. Digital Skills: A new USP hub will train students and community members in AI, networking and cybersecurity, with learning links to Samoa and Vanuatu.

Education: More than 8,500 Year 13 students begin national exams, with Education Minister Aseri Radrodro urging them to stay confident and remember results do not define their future. Cultural Heritage: Fiji-linked author Sheryl Prakash’s debut children’s book honours her late Nani and traces her family’s journey from India to Fiji and New Zealand, celebrating grandparents’ role in passing on Indo-Fijian traditions. Pacific Film: The Pacific Human Rights Film Festival drew more than 2,500 people across the region, with Fiji screenings featuring women-led films and stories of motherhood and younger generations. Girls’ Safety: At a Kadavu outreach, officials called for safe spaces, quality education and equal opportunities for girls amid concerns over sexual violence and teenage pregnancies. Food and Culture: Vanshika Naidu was named Fiji Vegan Chef of the Year and will represent the country in Shanghai in 2027, after a showcase celebrating local ingredients and culinary creativity. Diwali: At a Suva celebration, Finance Minister Esrom Immanuel said the festival’s message of unity means respecting Fiji’s diverse communities.

Constitution Debate: Public submissions in Labasa have called for equal rights for all races and for religion and State to remain separate, as critics question the proposed amendments’ impact on Fiji’s multiracial society. Food & Culture: Outrigger Fiji chef Vanshika Naidu has won Fiji Vegan Chef of the Year 2026 and will represent the country in Shanghai next year; the national showcase celebrated local ingredients including breadfruit, coconut, mango and bush lemon. Heritage & Land: Fiji Museum is urging a halt to the proposed Sigatoka iron-sands mining project, warning that it could damage archaeological sites near the sand dunes before their cultural significance is fully assessed. Women’s Leadership: Macuata community leader Ranadiniceva Raluna is pursuing a place in Parliament after years of service as a village women’s leader, challenging beliefs about women’s roles.

Faith and Identity: Mahendra Chaudhry says Fiji should keep religion and the State separate, warning that favouring one faith could deepen divisions in the country’s multiracial society. Inclusive Fiji: The University of Fiji urges Government to rebuild public trust and protect people’s ability to maintain their languages and cultures. Cultural Heritage: Fiji Museum wants the Sigatoka iron-sands mining project halted while it assesses risks to archaeological and fossil resources near the Sand Dunes. Women’s Leadership: Macuata community leader Ranadiniceva Raluna is pursuing a path to Parliament after years of service, challenging beliefs about women’s roles. Drua Culture: New coach Brad Mooar says understanding players’ faith, family and team culture will come before introducing his own approach.

Constitution Debate: Former attorney-general Aiyaz Sayed-Khaiyum urged the Government to pause the Constitution Amendment Bill, citing limited consultation and drafting concerns. Deputy Prime Minister Manoa Kamikamica challenged critics to identify provisions they consider racist, while the University of Fiji called for reforms that build trust, inclusion and equal opportunity. Cultural Heritage: Fiji Museum wants the Sigatoka iron-sands mining project halted while it reviews risks to archaeological and fossil sites near the Sand Dunes; landowners say they were not consulted. Reconciliation: Jiutasa Lagilagi Rasaca Vosikata has joined Fiji’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission, tasked with supporting unity and trust between communities. Women’s Leadership: Macuata community leader Ranadiniceva Raluna, 64, is setting her sights on Parliament after years of village service, challenging doubts about women in leadership.

Heritage at Risk: Fiji Museum is urging a halt to the Sigatoka iron-sands project, warning that mining near the Sand Dunes could damage irreplaceable archaeological and cultural sites. Local landowners say they were not properly consulted and oppose mining and dredging. Women’s Leadership: Macuata community leader Ranadiniceva Raluna is pursuing a role in Parliament after years of service, while women leaders are calling for practical support, including campaign funding and childcare, to improve representation. Public Voice: Indo-Fijians in Vanua Levu are being urged to take part in consultations on proposed constitutional changes and put forward their views. Cultural Exchange: The University of Fiji is exploring music, arts and education projects with Cuba, including a collaboration blending Fijian and Cuban sounds. Indigenous Conservation: Solomon Islands delegates visited Vanua Levu’s Drawa Forest project, where eight clans protect nearly 4,000 hectares and earn income through carbon credits. Drua Culture: New coach Brad Mooar says understanding the team’s faith, family ties and existing culture will come before introducing his own approach.

Drua Culture: New coach Brad Mooar says understanding the team’s culture, faith and family ties comes before changing how players work. Pacific Rugby: Rugby league is creating hope and opportunities for girls and boys, with Fiji’s Bulikula facing Papua New Guinea’s Orchids at the World Cup. Women in Leadership: Women leaders are calling for childcare support, campaign funding and gender quotas to tackle Fiji’s stark parliamentary gap: 50 men and five women. Cultural Exchange: The University of Fiji and Cuba are exploring music, arts and academic partnerships, including a possible festival bringing artists together. Education: ACS dux Salote Rabuka credits family and teachers for helping her through a demanding final year; eligible TSLS-sponsored students will also get fee-free bank accounts under a new HFC Bank deal. Community Health: Health Minister Judy Compain says tackling Fiji’s HIV crisis requires accessible prevention, testing and treatment, alongside stronger community support. Land and Livelihoods: Landowners from seven Sigatoka villages say they were not consulted on an iron-sands mining assessment and oppose mining and dredging in the river.

Cultural Ties: The University of Fiji wants to deepen links with Cuba through music, arts, education and public health, including plans for artist exchanges and a possible music festival. Women in Politics: Women leaders are calling for gender quotas, campaign support and more women in winnable election positions, as Fiji’s Parliament has 50 men and five women. Indigenous Identity: Immigration Minister Viliame Naupoto wants the Vola ni Kawa Bula protected in the Constitution and linked to a pathway for some diaspora Fijians to regain citizenship. Land and Consultation: Landowners from seven Sigatoka villages say they were not consulted on the iron-sands mining assessment and oppose mining or dredging in the river. Health: Health Minister Judy Compain says Fiji needs stronger HIV prevention, testing, treatment and community support, alongside better access to condoms and PrEP. Constitutional Safeguards: The Fiji Law Society opposes future immunity for coup-makers and is calling for clearer civilian control of the military.

Health: Fiji’s HIV response needs stronger prevention, early testing, accessible treatment and community support, Health Minister Judy Compain says, calling for affordable condoms, PrEP and better sexual-health education. Women’s Leadership: At the Women’s Practice Parliament, speakers called for equal opportunities in politics and senior roles, noting Parliament has 50 men and just five women. Constitution and Identity: A 15-year-old told the review committee that Christian values should not mean forcing a state religion, and argued all citizens should share the name Fijian. Separately, Immigration Minister Viliame Naupoto proposed a pathway for some iTaukei diaspora members to regain citizenship through the VKB. School Safety: Twenty-one Queen Victoria School students have been moved to Namosi Secondary after an alleged assault on 37 Year 11 students; the younger students are receiving counselling, and the Education Minister has condemned bullying and delays in reporting.

Women in Leadership: At Fiji’s Women’s Practice Parliament, Assistant Minister Preetika Raj said financial, cultural and personal barriers still keep women from political leadership. School Safety: Twenty-one Year 13 students involved in an alleged stick-beating incident at Queen Victoria School have been removed, while 37 affected Year 11 students are receiving support; the Education Minister also raised concerns about delays in reporting. Cancer Care: The Reddy Foundation has renewed support for Fiji Cancer Society screening, patient transport and palliative care, including outreach to rural and maritime communities. Youth Health: HIV advocate Kalesi Toga Volatabu is calling for better testing follow-up and education to help people access results and care. Culture and Identity: Constitution consultations have reopened debate over indigenous identity and language, with a Tailevu resident questioning a proposal to use “iTaukei ni Vanua” and urging stronger support for teaching iTaukei in schools. Ocean Connections: The inaugural Hanua Ocean and Surf Festival brought children together for surfing, marine education and Pacific cultural storytelling at Natadola Beach.

School Safety: Twenty-one Year 13 students involved in a stick-beating incident at Queen Victoria School have been removed, while 37 affected Year 11 students are receiving counselling and support. Identity & Heritage: Constitution consultations are reigniting debate over who can use the name “Fijian” and how best to protect iTaukei identity, language and traditions. Ocean Culture: Fiji’s first Hanua Ocean and Surf Festival brought children together at Natadola for surfing, marine education and Pacific storytelling. Fijian Language: A new digital platform, Naisema, aims to help families overseas strengthen their connection to Fijian language and heritage. Women’s Leadership: Women in Fiji politics say campaign costs, family expectations and party culture remain barriers to leadership. Health & Wellbeing: A workplace screening initiative at Fiji Marriott Momi Bay gave 101 staff access to cancer checks and other health services.

Child Safety and Youth Voice: A youth leader has urged Fiji to bar under-16s from social media, citing harmful online influences, and called for young people to gain more roles in public decision-making. Women in Politics: Opposition MP Premila Kumar says a woman prime minister is unlikely soon, while political costs, family expectations and party culture continue to limit women’s leadership. Identity and Belonging: Constitutional consultations are again debating who can be called “Fijian” and how to recognise iTaukei heritage while respecting every community. Diaspora Connections: Remittances are forecast to approach $1.6 billion this year, supporting families and communities; a new digital platform, Naisema, also aims to help Fijians abroad pass on language and heritage. Faith and Community: Dussehra messages from Fiji’s multi-ethnic affairs minister highlighted the festival’s call for unity, respect and religious tolerance.

Language & Heritage: Brisbane-based founder Unaisi Natasha Mar has launched Naisema, a digital platform helping Fijian families overseas learn the language and pass cultural knowledge to the next generation. Pacific Education: Tuvalu Governor-General Temukisa Auina Penehuro Hauma is USP’s new Chancellor, bringing decades of education and community leadership to the role. Identity Debate: Constitution consultations have reopened questions of who is “Fijian” and whether the country should recognise Christian heritage or remain secular. Submissions range from reserving the name for iTaukei to supporting a shared national identity, with calls for more time and accessible consultations. Faith & Community: As Hindus celebrate Dussehra, Minister Charan Jeath Singh says the festival’s message of good triumphing over evil can strengthen unity and religious tolerance. Women’s Rights: Fiji’s Human Rights Commission says women’s representation in Parliament has gone backwards, while a Suva dialogue focused on violence, discrimination and barriers to leadership. Schools: Japan is providing nearly $983,000 for cyclone-resistant classrooms at two schools, easing overcrowding and replacing facilities damaged by a tornado.

Identity & Constitution: Fiji’s constitutional consultations have reopened debate over who is “Fijian” and whether Christianity should be recognised in the Constitution. Ba submitter Luciane Ligabalavu called for a distinction between Indigenous identity and citizenship, saying Fiji can honour its Christian heritage while respecting other faiths. Rights advocates also warn that referendum education and accessible polling places are essential for public participation. Child Safety: Minister Sashi Kiran urged children to report abuse and stay safe online, noting 16,770 child welfare cases were registered from 2012 to 2025. She also highlighted ongoing concerns about child marriage and disrupted education. Children’s Health: Cure Kids Race to Survive raised FJ$628,466 for children’s healthcare, supporting heart screening, treatment and medical oxygen. Agriculture Training: Israel is open to expanding its internship programme for Fijians, which provides hands-on farm experience and training. Fifty participants are confirmed through partnerships with Navuso, Tutu Rural Training Centre and Fiji National University.

Island Escapes: Fiji offers more than beach breaks: a Sigatoka River Safari combines jet-boat thrills with village visits and a chance to connect with local culture. Constitution & Identity: Public consultations are renewing debate over iTaukei rights, who can be called Fijian and whether Christianity should be recognised in the Constitution. Speakers have urged stronger protections for indigenous culture, while others warn against religious division and a rushed process. Women’s Rights: A Suva dialogue is addressing gender-based violence, women’s leadership and barriers to justice, especially for women in rural communities and those with disabilities. Children & Poverty: Some children are missing school because families struggle to provide basics such as lunch; a charity says it now supports 6,800 children nationwide. Local Enterprise: A new cocoa-processing facility in Dreketi aims to strengthen Vanua Levu’s supply chain and create opportunities for smallholder farmers. In Nadi, Davika Lata has turned her love of Fiji’s food culture into a restaurant business. Women’s Rugby: Fiji Bulikula made a strong World Cup debut, taking an early lead before narrowly losing 18–12 to New Zealand.

Culture & Heritage: Women in Action Group’s Mere Ratunabuabua is calling for a stand-alone ministry to protect Fiji’s heritage and support arts across all communities. At the Indian Film Festival, Minister Sashi Kiran said Hindi cinema helps bring Fiji’s ethnic communities together. Language & Pacific Leadership: As Niue Language Week begins, Professor Sir Collin Tukuitonga says Pacific communities offer solutions to global health and climate challenges, while the celebration highlights efforts to keep Vagahau Niue alive. Constitution & Identity: Youth representative Tamani Rarama says Fiji’s one-month consultation on proposed constitutional changes is too short for meaningful public participation. Nadi business leader Lawrence Kumar warns that giving Christianity special status could deepen religious divisions. Rugby: Fiji’s Bati opened their World Cup campaign with a 40-12 win over the Cook Islands. The Bulikula pushed New Zealand hard in their first-ever World Cup match, but fell 18-12 after leading 12-4. Healthcare: Fiji is aiming to become a Pacific specialist-healthcare hub, with Health Minister Ratu Atonio Lalabalavu calling for stronger services, training and local medicine production.