The Second Secretary, Consular and Commerce at the Indian High Commission in Fiji, Shree Pradeep Menon during the diya lighting.
The Fiji National University’s (FNU) Nasinu Campus came together to celebrate Diwali, the Festival of Lights, under the theme “Rangoli of Unity – Many Colours, One FNU”, highlighting the importance of cultural diversity, mutual respect and togetherness.
The celebration brought together staff, students and invited guests for an occasion that reflected the university’s commitment to fostering an inclusive campus environment where people from different cultural, religious and social backgrounds can learn and grow together.
FNU Acting Head of Campus, Ms Katarina Ruru Toga.
FNU Acting Head of Campus, Ms Katarina Ruru Toga, said the values associated with the festival were particularly meaningful in a university setting, where education served as a powerful force for empowering individuals, creating opportunities and transforming communities.
“Education is itself a light that empowers individuals, opens doors to opportunity and transforms communities. At FNU, we have a responsibility to nurture that light in our students, encouraging them to become knowledgeable, ethical and compassionate citizens.”
“Just as a rangoli brings together different colours to create something beautiful, our university flourishes when people from different cultural, religious and social backgrounds come together with mutual respect,” Ms Toga said.
The Second Secretary, Consular and Commerce at the Indian High Commission in Fiji, Shree Pradeep Menon.
The Chief Guest, Second Secretary, Consular and Commerce at the Indian High Commission in Fiji, Shree Pradeep Menon, highlighted that Diwali’s significance as a festival that transcended geographical boundaries and promoted hope, prosperity and the triumph of good over evil.
Shree Menon said the symbolism of lighting a diya, or traditional oil lamp, reflected the purpose of a university in spreading knowledge and dispelling ignorance.
“Education itself is one of the highest forms of light. It dispels the darkness of ignorance and equips young minds with the wisdom, skills, and values needed to build a brighter tomorrow,” Shree Menon stated. .
He encouraged students to recognise the importance of the knowledge, values and friendships they developed during their university years, noting that these would help shape their personal journeys and contribute to Fiji’s future growth and prosperity.
Shree Menon also acknowledged the longstanding relationship between India and Fiji, which has been strengthened through historical connections, cultural heritage, educational cooperation and people-to-people exchanges.
The Second Secretary, Consular and Commerce at the Indian High Commission in Fiji, Mr Shree Pradeep Menon, is escorted to the venue for the Diwali celebration at Fiji National University’s Nasinu Campus.
He reaffirmed India’s commitment to strengthening its partnerships with Fiji and its educational institutions, including FNU, while encouraging greater cultural understanding and cooperation between the two countries.
The celebration also provided an opportunity for attendees to experience aspects of Indian culture through performances and cultural presentations.