SUVA, FIJI: After more than eight years of dedication, the Vuku Volume II book was officially launched yesterday, marking a significant milestone for the Fiji National University (FNU) and the Institute of Indigenous Studies, Fiji.

The book features the works of 17 authors, showcasing the richness of Fijian indigenous knowledge and experiences. The youngest contributor is 27 years old, while the works of five authors who have since passed on are also honoured in this publication.

Speaking at the launch, Georgina Vugakoto, daughter of the late Tuipulotu Vugakoto, shared the sacrifices her family made during the book’s development.

“Sometimes I’d get annoyed driving my elderly mum to the Institute’s office at the Fijian Teachers Association complex almost every day,” she recalled.

“But today, when I see this book launched, I realised how fortunate I was to be part of this journey. It’s an emotional day for our family to see her work, alongside that of these great authors, being published.”

Chief Guest, Former Acting Police Commissioner and Tailevu Provincial Council Chair Rusiate Tudravu highlighted the importance of preserving Fiji’s history in the face of modern influences.
“I am concerned about today’s generation, who are shying away from learning about Fiji’s history,” Tudravu said.

“What will happen when this older generation is gone? We must preach the indigenous gospel to our youth and ensure our culture and traditions are maintained. Let us not forget our history but instead preserve our indigenous knowledge for the future.”

Vuku II is more than just a book, it is a testament to the resilience, contributions, and wisdom of indigenous Fijians, particularly women. The book celebrates their voices while ensuring their stories guide future generations.

FNU Vice-Chancellor Professor Unaisi Nabobo-Baba described the publication as vital for safeguarding indigenous knowledge.
“For indigenous Fijians, this means protecting the wisdom that connects us to our land, culture, and history. It ensures that future generations can draw strength from their heritage, understand their roots, and navigate the challenges of an evolving world,” she said.

Professor Nabobo-Baba acknowledged the legacy of her late husband, Professor Tupeni Baba, who made profound contributions to the book.

“I know he would have been deeply gratified to see his passion for education celebrated here today.”

FNU remains committed to embedding indigenous perspectives into its curriculum, research, and community engagement.

“We celebrate this expression through literature while looking forward to preserving these traditions for generations to come,” added Professor Nabobo-Baba.

In addition to Vuku Volume II, FNU also launched a collection of children’s books developed in collaboration with the village of Nadaro, Tailevu. Born from the Climate U project, these books are tailored for primary school students from Year 1 to Year 6.

The books, available in both English and the vernacular, aim to raise climate change awareness among young learners while preserving linguistic heritage. Written by experienced primary educators, these works represent a creative effort to equip children with the knowledge needed to address environmental challenges.

The launch of Vuku Volume II and the climate-focused children’s books reflects a unified effort to preserve history, celebrate indigenous wisdom, and engage the younger generation. This achievement ensures that the voices of the past and present will continue to inspire Fiji’s future.