A powerful display of unity, identity, and shared purpose marked Day Two of the Fiji National University College of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences (CMNHS) Multi-Cultural Week, as students and dignitaries gathered for a symbolic flag-raising ceremony and cultural showcase.
Held under the theme “Celebrating Cultural Connections: Flag Raising Ceremony and Booth Display: Showcasing Cultural Diversity Through Creativity Ceremony,” the event transformed the campus into a vibrant reflection of the Pacific’s rich and diverse heritage.
The Ambassador of the Federated States of Micronesia to Fiji, Carson Sigrah, delivered a stirring message on the power of culture in shaping identity and unity across the region, stating that in the Pacific, culture transcends heritage and serves as a source of identity, strength, and connection among people.
He said that cultural expressions from traditional songs to knowledge passed down through elders reflect resilience and are grounded in respect, community, and collective responsibility.
“To embrace cultural diversity is to open both heart and mind to the beauty of difference and to celebrate the customs and traditions that make each of us unique, while recognising the shared humanity that unites us all,” His Excellency Sigrah said.
He further highlighted that in institutions such as CMNHS, cultural competence is essential in healthcare, as it fosters trust, improves communication, and leads to better outcomes for communities.
Reinforcing the importance of international partnership, Second Secretary at the Embassy of Japan in Fiji, Chika Inoue, highlighted the enduring relationship between Japan and Fiji and its impact on health education.
Ms Inoue said events like the multicultural celebration demonstrate that despite diverse backgrounds, people are united by shared aspirations for peace, progress, and well-being.
She added that Japan and Fiji share a longstanding relationship built on mutual respect and cooperation, with Japan continuing to support Fiji’s development in areas such as health, education, and capacity building.
“Japan has played a significant role in supporting the development of health education in Fiji. Notably: The Japanese Government funded a $5.45 million project in 1984–1985 to construct the new Fiji School of Nursing building, replacing the original 1908 colonial-era facility.”
She also noted that the Embassy of Japan supported the refurbishment of the Alphabet Sculpture at the FNU School of Nursing, describing it as a symbol of the university’s role in training health professionals across the Pacific.
“It is especially encouraging to see future healthcare professionals gathered here today, as you represent the next generation who will carry forward the responsibility of caring for our communities,” Ms Inoue said.
CMNHS Acting Dean Dr Amelia Turagabeci said the ceremony carried deep meaning beyond its visual symbolism.
She said the flag-raising was not simply ceremonial, as each flag represents a nation, its people, history, and cultural heritage.
“Together, these flags tell the story of the Pacific, a region connected not only by the vast ocean that surrounds us, but also by our shared values of respect, community, resilience, and service,” she said.
Dr Turagabeci added that CMNHS is proud to host students and staff from across the Pacific, creating an environment where diverse cultures come together in shared learning spaces.
She emphasised that education goes beyond textbooks, noting that it also involves building meaningful connections, learning from one another, and celebrating cultural identities.
