Crown Princess

of Denmark Mary
Elizabeth impresses the
Fijian Government –
Page 2

SERVING THE COMMUNITY OF FIJI WITH PASSION APRIL 25 - MAY 25, 2023 PRICE: 50 CENTS

PM Rabuka assures all Fijians

Sanjay Goundar

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has assured all Fijian

that his coalition government will implement policies
taking into consideration the plight of all citizens of the
country.
In a recent radio talk back show ‘Straight talk with
Vijay Narayan’ the head of the coalition cleared the air on
various speculations which had raised eyebrows against
his government.
Rabuka revealed that he has asked all members of his
cabinet to be extra cautious on what they are saying in
public or posting on their social media accounts.
He stressed that there are certain elements in the society
who are quick in picking up and twisting words from
uttered by the ministers which takes lot of time and effort
to be rectified later.
The Prime Minister assured the nation that despite
the much-deteriorated state of the infrastructure, his
government will do their level best to improve the state of
things in these four years.
“My message to the Fijian public is that we are still going
to have problem with finances in relation to our economy
but there will be proper managing of the economy now.
“We are not going to build new expensive bridges at this
stage but will maintain the existing ones to make sure that
people are travelling in comfort.
“Repairing of the potholes and improving water supply Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Biman Prasad receiveing a Royalty Cheque from Minister for Lands and
problems will be a priority. Water supply is a very critical Mineral Resources Filimoni Vosarogo amounting to $3,673,668.25 from the mining sector at Ro Lalabalavu House in Suva.
issue for us and we will ensure the problem gets fixed
soon. “ With the new national budget coming up in next few is concerned the head of the government has reconfirmed
Rabuka revealed that government can afford to meet the months, the People’s Alliance Party leader emphasized that all those who had previously studied under this
$800million requirement by the Water Authority of Fiji that his government has to be very careful and prudent program will have their names cancelled from the Fiji
to thoroughly fix the water system problem in the central with the expenditure of the budget. Revenue and Customs Services debt list provided that
division within the next few years. The Prime Minister has also assured the nation that they serve a bond in their country before intending to
He highlighted that the inability of all previous cabinet will closely deliberate on the recommendations of move overseas.
governments to allocate funds for maintenance of the the fiscal committee on economic development to ensure With phasing out of the TELS program he has assured
infrastruc ture has led to the enormous problems being that the public do not suffer extensively. that all those students who have the required marks will be
faced now. As far as the Tertiary Education Loans Services (TELS) provided with scholarships in the near future.
2 NEWS APRIL 25 - MAY 25, 2023

PM Rabuka commends Princess of Denmark

Denmark’s Crown Princess Mary Elizabeth’s commit-
ment in advocating for health, gender equality and the em-
powerment of women and girls has been highly praised by
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.
Rabuka received a courtesy call from Her Royal Highness
(HRH) Crown Princess Mary Elizabeth of Denmark, at the
Ministry of Foreign Affairs headquarters in Suva on April
26.
The Crown Princess was accompanied by the UN Un-
der-Secretary-General and the United Nations Population
Fund (UNFPA) Executive Director, Dr. Natalia Kanem
and Denmark’s Minister for Development Cooperation and
Global Climate Policy Mr. Dan Jørgensen.
Prime Minister Rabuka welcomed and thanked Her Royal
Highness for her first visit to our shores which demonstrates
Denmark’s unwavering support for Fiji and the Pacific re-
gion.
He said this timely visit will advance our friendly rela-
tions and cooperation with Denmark on issues of impor-
tance such as climate actions, sustainable development and
inclusivity.
At the same time, the Prime Minister acknowledged
Crown Princess Mary for her commitment in advocating
for health, gender equality and the empowerment of women
and girls.
The Head of the Coalition Government also thanked Dr.
Kanem for her first mission to Fiji to strengthen the UNF-
Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka with the Crown Princess of Denmark Mary Elizabeth (middle) and Denmark’s Minister for
PA’s partnership in building an inclusive and gender-respon-
Development Cooperation and Global Climate Policy Mr. Dan Jørgensen. Photo: Supplied
sive approaches across all sectors.
Today’s meeting outlined the prospects for new partner- communities thrive. “It is something that everyone is experiencing right now.
ships in shared priorities such as climate actions, economic “UNFPA greatly appreciates the steadfast partnership Extreme weather conditions are occurring more frequently,
prosperity and empowerment of women, children, youths with and leadership of the new Government of Fiji and peo- which especially affects vulnerable groups.
and society as a whole. ple of Fiji. “Sea levels are rising, destroying basic living conditions
During the meeting, Crown Princess Mary thanked Prime “UNFPA looks forward to working together to expand ac- such as farmlands, drinking water and housing. Denmark
Minister Rabuka and the people of Fiji for the kind hospital- cess to family planning, end preventable maternal deaths, is dedicated to the fight against climate change,” Minister
ity accorded to her. and eliminate all forms of gender-based violence in Fiji and Jørgensen said.
She commended the Fiji Government’s commitment to- other Pacific Island Countries,” Dr Kanem said. Today’s discussions coincided with a bilateral meeting
wards inclusivity and sustainable development. Meanwhile, Denmark’s Minister Mr Jørgensen stressed held between Denmark’s Minister for Development Coop-
She also reaffirmed Denmark’s support to enhance the on the importance of their visit to Fiji. eration and Global Climate Policy Mr. Dan Jørgensen and
close and friendly relations between the two nations. “We look forward to strengthen ties with Fiji and develop Minister for Rural and Maritime Development, Disaster
UNFPA Executive Director Dr Kanem said that UNFPA new partnerships to tackle the consequences of the climate Management Hon. Sakiasi Ditoka.
has been working in Fiji for 30 years, supporting national crisis. Fiji looks forward to the new development initiatives to
and regional efforts to protect and defend the rights of wom- “For the people of Fiji, climate change is not something be pursued through the Crown Princess Mary’s historic visit
en, girls and young people so that they, their families and that will happen in the future. to Fiji.

UN Population Fund Executive Director commends Fiji’s efforts

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Executive
Director, Dr Natalia Kanem has acknowledged Fiji’s efforts
in providing quality health professionals and Government’s
attention to transportation logistics for women who are in
labour.
During a joint press conference with Fiji’s Deputy Prime
Minister and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad,
Dr Kanem said nearly all the births taking place in the coun-
try are in the presence of skilled birth attendants – the mid-
wives, nurses and doctors.
She further added that today, more and more women in Fiji
are able to access family planning services, however, access
to quality maternal healthcare remains a challenge particular-
ly for women in the hard-to-reach maritime areas therefore,
UNFPA has joined the United Nations to support the Gov-
ernment’s effort to promote the quality of midwifery services
including supporting training activities and providing equip-
ment.
The press conference was centred around Dr Kanem’s offi-
cial three-day mission to Fiji recently which highlighted the
main reflections and takeaways from her visit to Fiji with
reference to the new State of World Population Report’s key
findings and messages and how it relates to Fiji.
During her visit, Dr Kanem engaged with high level offi-
cials of the Government, as well as women and girls, persons
with disabilities, healthcare professionals and youth climate
activists.
She also participated in the visit to Nabavatu Village to see
firsthand devastating impact of climate-related disasters on
communities in the Pacific, especially on women and girls.
Minister Prasad acknowledged Dr Kanem for her visit
to Fiji and fruitful discussions on key issues in the areas of
population and development. He said the Government looks
forward in working with the UNFPA. The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Executive Director, Dr Natalia Kanem with Fiji’s Deputy Prime Minister
and Minister for Finance Professor Biman Prasad.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

APRIL 25 - MAY 25, 2023 ADVERTISEMENT 3

Lautoka Campus

GIRMIT
C e l e b r a t i o n
Wednesday 3 May 2023 | USP Lautoka Campus Lecture Room 1A | 9am To 7pm

PROGRAM
8.30am Arrival of Schools and Judges
9.00am Debate Begins
Lautoka High
11.30am Presentation of Prizes by Chief Judge: Assistant
Schools’ Debate Minister of Women, Children and Poverty
Competition Alleviation, Hon. Sashi Kiran
11.55am Vote of Thanks
12.00pm Refreshments

2.00pm USP Lautoka Students and Invited Guests to be seated

2.05pm Welcome
GirmitAct:
2.10pm Address by Chief Guest, Assistant Minister of Women,
USP Lautoka Children and Poverty Alleviation, Hon. Sashi Kiran
Students 2.20pm USP Lautoka Students’ Performance & Presentations
4.30pm Refreshments

Exhibition for 5.00pm All Welcome to view the Girmit Exhibits.

Public in Lecture (Refreshments will be provided)

Room 1A 7.00pm End of Program

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

4 LAUTOKA CITY COUNCIL NEWS APRIL 25 - MAY 25, 2023

Employment Minister holds talanoa session with employers and Chamber officials
The Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations Agni Deo Singh earlier In closing, the Minister urged employers and employees to reach out to the government if
this month held a Talanoa Session with the group Employers and the Lautoka Chamber of Com- they have any issues or concerns related to employment and productivity. He reiterated that only
merce today at the Lautoka City Council Chamber. During the session, the Minister discussed through communication and collaboration can Fiji continue to make progress towards a brighter
a number of pressing issues including employment creation, labour laws, labour mobility, and future for all its citizens.
sustainable employment environments.
The Minister emphasized that the Fijian government is committed to listening to the needs and
concerns of its citizens and is dedicated to creating sustainable employment opportunities for
all Fijians. He also encouraged the business community to play an active role in supporting the
government’s efforts in this regard.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of good employer-employee relationships and
announced that the government will be offering incentives to encourage such relationships. Ad-
ditionally, he announced the establishment of a committee to review the Employment Relations
Act, with the possibility of amending labor laws in the future.
Another major issue discussed during the Talanoa Session was labor mobility. The Minister
acknowledged that many Fijians are leaving the country to seek employment opportunities else-
where and emphasized the importance of providing training and skill development opportunities
to keep Fijians employed in Fiji. The Minister announced that the government is planning to
open up technical colleges to provide training for Fijians so that they can be trained and skilled
in a range of industries.
The President of the Lautoka Chamber of Commerce, Mr. Wasu Pillay, also spoke at the Tala-
noa Session and shared what the Chamber is currently doing and planning to do in support of the
government’s employment and productivity goals. Mr. Pillay expressed his readiness to work Minister for Employment, Productivity and Public Relations Agni Deo Singh (3rd from right)
with the government and the business community to create a more productive and sustainable with members of the business community in Lautoka. Photo: Supplied
employment environment in Fiji.

Limited 12 Month
Amnesty on Interest
Payable for Municipal
Rates Arrears
Cabinet approved an amnesty period on interest
payable from ratepayers in arrears.
The Amnesty is intended to facilitate the
recovery of principal rates owed by residential
rate payers.
This amnesty will be implemented in phases.
Phase 1 will be effective from 1 January 2023
to 31 July 2023. Based on the collection of rates
in Phase 1, Phase 2 will then be effective from 1st
August 2023 to 31st December 2023.
Government recognises that owners of
residential property face difficulties in paying
rates due to reduced household income. Since
2020, the COVID-19 pandemic saw many
workers losing their jobs, or working reduced
hours, reducing household income.
The 11% compound interest rate applied
annually under the Local Government Act
increases difficulties faced by Ratepayers.
The Ministry of Local Government will also
review the compound interest rate set at 11% and
carry out consultations to ensure interest levied is
fair to ratepayers.

Attention all residential ratepayers in Lautoka

City!

We have some exciting news to share with you.

The Council has approved an Amnesty Period
for ratepayers, which means that all interest on
payable rates arrears will be waived for residential
ratepayers only.
To be eligible for this interest waiver, all you
need to do is pay the principal amount within the
timeframe specified.
The amnesty period will be effective from 1
January 2023 to 31 July 2023.
If you have paid your arrears, which includes
the interest, since January 2023, you are entitled
to a refund of the interest component or you can
make arrangements with the rates office to offset
the next year’s rate payment.
Don’t miss out on this limited-time offer! Act
now and settle your principal rates during the
amnesty period to enjoy the benefits of an interest
waiver.
For more information, please contact our Senior
Rates Officer, Mr. Irinale Nabalarua on nale@
lautokacitycouncil.com.fj or call on 9989719.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

APRIL 25 - MAY 25, 2023 NEWS 5

Adhere to the seven words uttered by Jesus Christ on the cross

Sanjay Goundar

As the world marked Easter earlier this month people of the

Christian faith have been urged to adhere to the final seven
words uttered by Lord Jesus Christ whilst being crucified on
the cross.
During a special Easter service at the Saint Peter’s Angli-
can Church in Lautoka Priest in Charge Reverend Peni Wako
stressed that God almighty wants his disciples to fulfill his
promises.
He pointed out that people are not born in this world on their
own will rather they are here to fulfill God’s plan.
Rev Wako emphasized that human beings have a spiritual
obligation to fulfill similarity as Jesus rose to fulfill the purpose
of God.
“The first word uttered on the cross by Jesus Christ was ‘Fa-
ther forgive them as they do not know what they are doing’.
The heart of this message is that we should imagine our Lord
Jesus Christ still hanging on the cross teaching us what we
should do.
“Second ‘Truly I tell you, today you will be with me in Para-
dise’ is a message that God sent his son to get rid of ignorance
when he saw darkness taking over the world.
“Third ‘Woman, here is your son. Here is your mother’ Mary
had seen more than her share of sorrow in her life with Jesus.
Now, seeing her grown Son hated by people and forsaken by
friends, she “stood by the cross of Jesus. Yet here was Jesus,
intensely suffering, but thinking of the needs of the mother who Priests in charge of the Saint Peter’s Anglican Church in Lautoka Reverend Peni Wako (1st from right) and Reverend Nathaniel
had loved Him and making sure she’d be cared for by John. Hem Raj with church members during thespecial Easter Friday service. Photos: Sanjay Goundar
While much of the story of His last hours highlights His rela-
His anguish Jesus remained clear-headed and aware that the to Him was finished! He was only minutes away from con-
tionship with His Heavenly Father, this reveals the honor He
prophecy of Psalm 69:21 still needed to be fulfilled: “For my cluding His ultimate work in the flesh—offering Himself as our
felt for His human mother.
thirst they gave me vinegar to drink.” This again demonstrates atoning sacrifice, His beaten body and shed blood paying for
“My God, My God, why have You forsaken Me” He mere-
His physical suffering (Hebrews 2:17-18), and He therefore our sins. Jesus had never wavered from His destiny
ly posed a question. Just because He felt forsaken, He would
understands our hurting too. “’Father, ‘into Your hands I commit My spirit’”. He who
not forsake God. There was no accusing God, no questioning
“What did He finish? Much! That day saw at least 25 messi- freely gave Himself into the hands of His executioners was
God’s love, no doubting His promises. It was, as some have
anic prophecies fulfilled, witnessing to the inspiration of God’s now committing Himself into the hands of His Father. In life
noted, “a cry of distress, not of distrust.”
Word. At age 12, He had said, “I must be about My Father’s He had always submitted to His Father’s will, and now in death
“Knowing that all things were now accomplished, that the
business” (Luke 2:49); and now that work committed it would be no different,” Rev Wako concluded.
Scripture might be fulfilled,” Jesus said, “I thirst.” In

Hindi external examination toppers awarded

Top scorers in Hindi in the Year 13 external examination last year after receiving their awards Chief Guest Shamla Kusum Lata and Hindi Parishad Fiji western branch President Naresh
from chief guest Shamla Kusum Lata. Photos: Sanjay Goundar Chand with top scorers in last years Year-12 external examination from the western division.

Sanjay Goundar who discourage their children from doing Hindi.”

Top scorers from the western division in the Hindi subject in last year external examination
were recently awarded for their academic excellence.
Hindi Parishad Fiji western branch in conjunction with the High Commission of India held the
annual awards program at Fiji National University Natabua Campus on April 21.
Six students from Year 8, three students from Year 12 and three students from Year 13 were
each awarded with a trophy, $100 cash and a certificate for scoring highest mark in Hindi.
Chief Guest at the event Ministry of Education’s Senior Curriculum Specialist Hindi Shamla
Kusum Lata stressed that awards function such as this is very important to encourage students
to continue studying Hindi.
She informed that Hindi as a subject is not getting the required platform to progress which
is visible through the decreasing number of students undertaking Hindi as a subject in schools.
Lata highlighted that Indo-Fijian parents should feel privileged that there is no restriction from
the government in teaching Hindi subject in schools.
“It would have been a problem if we were not allowed to teach Hindi in schools but we don’t
have any such obstacle in our country.
“From Year 1 to Year 13 government is providing all the avenues for teaching of Hindi like
any other subject.
“We are also very thankful to all those parents who encourage their children to undertake Hin-
di as a subject in schools but more awareness is needed to change the mindset of those parents
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
Lata added that Hindi is the mother tongue of the Indo-Fijian community and should not be
left behind.
She emphasized that Hindi will never cause any kind of hindrance in the employment of an
individual.
She also revealed that discussions are undergoing within the Ministry of Education to make
Hindi subject compulsory up till Year 10 in high school in the near future.
Echoing similar sentiments Hindi Parishad Fiji western branch President Naresh Chand point-
ed out that it is unfortunate that whilst a larger number of students take Hindi as a subject in the
primary school this number drastically reduces when students pursue their secondary school
studies.
Chand stressed that Hindi will always remain the identity of people from the Indian origin and
its importance should never been underestimated.
Meanwhile, the award recipients for Year 8 were Diya Mistry (98/100) from Tavua Primary
School, Avishna Sundram (98) from DAV Primary School, Raanya Raj (99) from Sabeto Prima-
ry School, Suhani Pillay (97) from Naidovi Primary School, Merilyn Nishita (97) from Nawai
Primary School and Nischal Gounder (95/100) from Penang Sangam Primary School.
For Year 12 external examination the top scorers in Hindi from the west were Dishali Sami
(92/100) from A.D Patel College, Prathiksha Prasad (91) from Tilak High School and Neha Ku-
mar (89/100) from Sigatoka Methodist College.
For Year 13 the award recipients were Ashwariya Prasad (95/100) from Xavier College, Sin-
thiya Nand (97) from Korovuto College and Shayal Singh (90/100) from Nadroga Arya College.
6 NEWS APRIL 25 - MAY 25, 2023

Australian capital as newest international destination for Fiji Airways

EDITORIAL COMMENT
Australia’s Capital, Canber-
Player’s welfare paramount ra is the latest city to be added
to Fiji Airways ever-growing
The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) congratulates Rooster list of international destina-
Chicken Fijiana Drua for qualifying for the Super W tions. The National Airline on
semi-final. April 14 flew a promotional
Fijiana Drua finished fourth on the table and faced the flight into Canberra Airport
unbeaten Waratahs at 3.05pm FJT in Sydney on Sunday to announce the new service
30th April 2023 from July 2023.
FRU Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Sale Sorovaki Fiji Airways Chief Execu-
has congratulated the Head Coach, Inoke Male, his tive and Managing Director
support team, management and players for always Mr Andre Viljoen says the air-
putting up a gallant performance despite the challenges. line conducted extensive mar-
He said “I just want to say Vinaka Vakalevu to everyone ket research before deciding
involved and you have our full support for the Fijiana on this new service.
Drua to bounce back, beat Waratahs, and reach the final “As Fiji’s National Airline,
again this year.” we are proud to be flying to
Sorovaki said he would also like to address the recent the Capital of Australia. This
social media post regarding player allowance and teams is a living testament to the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Tourism Viliame Gavoka with Fiji Airways Chief
meal. strong relations that the two Executive and Managing Director during the launch of the new flight destination to Canberra.
FRU does enjoy a huge fan base globally and wherever countries have always en-
our teams participate these fans always turn out in joyed, and demonstrates the continue to expand our net- Airways fleet. announcement was celebrated
numbers and support the players and team as a whole importance of Australia as our work and provide greater con- “We will receive the first of with a promotional flight re-
in any way possible. We thank you for this continued leading tourism market. nectivity for our customers. our two new A350s in July, cently, carrying Fijian Deputy
support of our teams. “We are pleased to be able “We are thrilled to bring our resulting in an immediate in- Prime Minister and Minister
“FRU is responsible for looking over the general to provide the people of Can- world-class service to Can- crease in capacity across our for Tourism Viliame Gavoka,
logistics of any team traveling overseas. These include berra the only direct flights to berra and look forward to network.”. Viljoen added that the Fijian Drua, and local fans
players allowance, accommodation, meals and any other Nadi, facilitating a seamless welcoming our customers on- the airline will now be able to watch the match against the
associated costs.” holiday experience which board. Our services between to dedicate more seats to the Brumbies at GIO Stadium in
Sorovaki said “We would like to make it clear that all begins the moment they step Nadi and Canberra will also Australian market, specifical- Canberra. Fiji Airways has
cotracted players have been paid up until now.” onboard. As of July, your establish a convenient onward ly Canberra. also confirmed its sponsorship
Sorovaki further added “I admit that we have had some getaway to paradise will be a connection to North America, He informed that Australia of the Brumbies for Super
challenges regarding our financial processes which had short four-hour journey with other South Pacific destina- continues to be their major Rugby Pacific.
a direct effect on the Fijiana Drua. These have been our international award win- tions and indeed the rest of source market for tourism. The National Airline will
highlighted to us by DFAT through Rugby Australia ning APEX Five Star service. the world. Travellers can also “Not only do we need to be provide services between Nadi
which monitors this financial assistance, and FRU is “We also anticipate the break up a long journey with a able to cater for the growing and Canberra twice weekly on
trying its utmost to improve on it. many Fiji citizens will also short stay in Fiji.” Mr Viljoen number of tourists visiting Tuesdays and Fridays from
We are grateful to the Australian Government through take advantage of this route to adds the new service has been Fiji, but also position our- July to the end of September,
the Vuvale Partnership which allows our Fijiana visit Canberra. This marks an- made possible with the forth- selves to create demand and and three times a week from
Drua Womens Team to participate in the Super W other significant milestone for coming inclusion of two new ensure that Fiji Airways is October onwards
Competition.” Fiji Airways as we Airbus A350s into the Fiji their airline of choice.”” The
“To the Fijian families that have assisted the Fijiana Drua
with meals and other support, FRU is eternally grateful
to you for using your own hard-earned resources to help
FNU commences Primary School Awareness Programme
in the time of need towards our ladies and management.
We may not be able to repay you, however, we are deeply Labasa Primary School Teacher, Vi-
grateful for your kind gesture and support to our fellow likesa Ranatora, is grateful to the Fiji Na-
Fijians at a time when they needed it the most. We pray tional University (FNU) for its initiative
that God’s blessings and provisions be upon each family in organising awareness sessions for pri-
who helped. mary school students.
Moving forward, Fiji Rugby and Rugby Australia will FNU’s inaugural Primary School
continue to work hand in hand in ensuring that this issue Awareness Programme (PSAP) officially
is not repeated”, said Sorovaki. commenced in the Central, Western and
He added “As with World Rugby Commitment to “Player Northern Divisions today. The Univer-
Welfare,” we will ensure that our players’ welfare sity’s team visited a total of 10 schools
remains paramount in all that we do.” recently, comprising of schools each from
Suva, Lautoka and Labasa. The campaign
aims to gradually begin creating aware-
ness about the University’s programmes
Maika Kasami and services.
Editor Ranatora, who has been teaching Year
8 students at Labasa Primary School for
almost seven years, said the University
had conducted an interactive and engag-
ing session for the primary school stu-
Team CITY STAR contact Information: dents.
“This project is overdue. This should
Publisher: Sanjay Goundar have started years back, but we are so
thankful to the Fiji National Universi-
Phone : (679) 996 0129 / 7844836 ty for organising sessions with primary
Lautoka Muslim Primary School students listening to FNU Outreach Specialist,
Torella Dominiko during her presentation.
Email: sanjaygoundar@gmail.com school students, as this is really where the
foundation of learning begins,” Ranatora Rishikul Primary School Head Teach- career paths.
shared. er, Rishi Chand added that FNU was pro- “This is a good time to introduce to the
Editor: Maika Kasami “I must say that the initiative has been active in playing a key role in creating students to start their train of thoughts
Phone: (679) 918 9779 / 741 5752 a very successful vision; it was seen in awareness at the primary learning level. right from a very young age,” said Dutt.
each students’ eyes, that they wished for “FNU’s effort in reaching out to the “The session was very motivating, in-
Email: m2kaaz@gmail.com / the session to last longer.” students is noteworthy and quite com- citeful, and it actually made the students
citystarnews15@gmail.com “It was well-oriented, and the children mendable, and in my many years of expe- think about their career paths which many
really learnt a lot. These sessions gave rience, this programme has never filtered wouldn’t have probably placed a thought
them an insight on what life would be like down to the primary school students,” to.”
Marketing Manager : Zareena Bi at a later stage, and to bring to them this Chand said. “It was a different feeling for the stu-
Phone (679) 932 2621 knowledge now will instill habits and “This is the first year that FNU has dents, away from their normal hours be-
developments to realise where they are done something of this nature in prima- ing in the classroom,” she added.
headed.” ry schools, and I believe that by targeting The University will be visiting identi-
Office Location: 19 Naviti Street, Labasa Primary School Year 8 student primary schools, it gives the students an fied primary schools throughout the week
Lautoka and Head Girl Unaisi Lalibuli said the opportunity at an early age to decide how as part of the awareness programme.
PSAP was very informative. they want their future to look like.”
“The major takeaway from FNU’s vis- Lautoka Muslim Primary School Year
Postal : P.O Box 4230, Lautoka it to my school today was that there are 8 teacher, Nileshni Dutt said the PSAP
so many different campuses and options was an opportune time to prepare and al-
Printer: Universal Print available to students,” Lalibuli said. low students to think ready about their

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

APRIL 25 - MAY 25, 2023 NEWS 7

Faith based organizations vital for education

Zareena Bi

The importance of cultural based or language based or faith

based organizations in education in Fiji cannot be denied.
This was the vital message conveyed by the Vice-Chancellor
of the University of Fiji Professor Shaista Shameem while
officiating at the Dakshina Andhra Sangam’s 79th annual
convention cultural night program on April 7.
Professor Shameem informed that normally, education
should be as is the rule under international law a state or
government responsibility, however, no government anywhere
in the world is able to take up this duty fully.
“And so just like in Fiji, governments everywhere have
relied on nongovernmental organizations to support education
of the next generations in most cases. I am aware that Andhra
Sangam has taken a leading role in educating young people in
Fiji.
“The organization may not have many schools but the
schools that are there are leading in education and culture. And
that is the best thing for any organization to do to look after the
next generation.
“I commend the leaders of your organization for undertaking
their responsibilities soulfully for their community with dignity
and pride.
She added that without these organizations, many children
will not be able to go to school at all, and many others would
not be able to go further to universities to graduate with a
diploma or degree to be able to get employed and look after
Vice Chancellor of the University of Fiji Professor Shaista Anjali Ram of Ba Andhra received the best cultural dance
their own families.
Shameem officially opening the cultural night. award for her this exceptional performance.
Professor Shameem further added that the University of
Fiji considers human values to be a necessary focus for any
organization, especially a cultural based organization running
an educational institution in the 21st century.
“All culture and faith-based organizations have their own set
of values that they follow and also attempt to instil in the next
generation of their children.
“We need to make sure that the young people we educate,
understand the values that underpin any culture or faith.
“This does not always mean religious values. For many
schools, that is relevant in the Scripture as well as lessons and
prayers at the start and end of the day.”
The Professor also highlighted on the need for ethical
leadership in organizations for a sustainable future.
“All organizations should expect its leaders to lead by
example otherwise the lessons that we try to teach our children
and to train them to respect their religion or culture and
perspective in our schools and institutions will not be learnt
at all.
“There cannot be one set of rules for the leaders and another
set for the ordinary people, leaders who are themselves not
following their own rules don’t last very long and get quickly
replaced by others.
“This is why leadership is in such a crisis the world over
because the leaders think they’re above the rules they expect
others to follow. When they’re replaced instability occurs
and everyone suffers the ordinary people most of all, but also
the economy, the environment, as well as the social situation
leading to poverty and other social problems.”

Dhanlakshmi Reddy, Lautoka Andhra Sangam receiving the Manisha Sami of Lautoka Andhra doing a special trikutu
Life Time Achievement Award. Photos: Sanjay Goundar performance at the cultural nite

Taslim aspires to develop welfare of Fijian seafarers

Fiji National University (FNU) staff member, Mohammed
Taslim (Pictured) aspires to develop the welfare of Fijian sea-
farers and is working towards becoming part of the Fiji Mar-
itime Academy (FMA) academic team.
The FMA Executive Officer and part-time lecturer of the
Maritime Law unit said it was a goal of his to transition from
being a support staff to being directly involved in teaching
students.
“Being the EO at FMA, which is the only maritime train-
ing institute in Fiji, and at the same time getting involved in
teaching cadets and senior officers is a demanding profession
to be involved in,” the 33-year-old said.
“I would like to join the Academic team on a full-time basis
and complete my PhD in Maritime Law so that I can contrib-
ute to developing the welfare of Fijian Seafarers. My goal
in life is to be a respected person who people see as a role
model.”
As a lecturer for the TVET unit, Taslim (pictured below)
says there should be more focus on TVET compared to High-
er Education regionally and internationally.
“Looking at the maritime industry, seafarers earn a lot, and
that money is brought to our country when they sail on for-
eign ships, contributing significantly towards our economy,” and every day there is something new to learn that I could
he explained. then impart to my students,” Taslim said passionately.
Originally from Tuvurara Estate, Savusavu, Taslim has two “There is nothing that I consider difficult – Alhumdulillah,
children and is married to Misbah Tahenat Tasneem, who is a I am happy with whatever God has blessed me with.”
teacher by profession.
He spent most of his childhood and teenage years at Tabia
in Labasa “My father was a priest at the Tabia Mosque for
33 years, and I came to Suva after completing my second-
ary school at Labasa College to further my education,” he
explained. “I come from an average family and I’m proud to
have my parents staying with me – it’s a huge blessing. I also
have an older sister and a younger brother.”
Taslim attained his Master in Maritime Affairs (Educa-
tion and Training) from World Maritime University (WMU),
Malmo in Sweden, and a Post Graduate Diploma in Climate
Change and a Bachelor of Science in Marine Science from
the University of the South Pacific. He recently revalidated
his Boat Master License (BML) Certificate of Competency.
“Maritime is a specialised area like Medicine and Avia-
tion. I did my Masters in Maritime Affairs so that I can better
understand the operations and legal aspects of the Maritime
Industry. I am involved in many things related to maritime

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

8 NEWS APRIL 25 - MAY 25, 2023

Draw inspiration from the past emphasizes Indian envoy

Sanjay Goundar

Indian High Commissioner to Fiji Shri

Palaniswamy Subramanyan Karthigeyan has
urged the new generation Fijians to take inspi-
ration and learn from the experiences of our
ancestors.
Speaking at the 79th annual Dakshina India
Andhra Sangam of Fiji convention at Lauto-
ka’s Churchill Park earlier this month Karthig-
eyan pointed out that the current generation
should look at the struggle of the Girmitiyas to
learn many valuable lessons of survival under
extreme difficulties.
“Last three years when we went through
this unprecedented Covid-19 pandemic we
all were struggling but imagine the same kind
of pandemic plague and influenza was there a
century back.
“That was a time when all these great men
drew their inspiration from struggles of the
community to go beyond their self interest to
form organizations like the Andhra Sangam.
“So, with the great struggle that we face
people come out stronger, tougher and with a
zeal for service to fellow human being.
“I think that is the kind of lessons that we
all should draw. All of us know about the im-
mense struggle that has been experienced by
the pioneers who came here as indentured la-
bourers, then became free man and went on
to contribute to the growth of this beautiful Indian High Commissioner to Fiji Shri Palaniswamy Subramanyan Karthigeyan inspecting the cultural artifacts display by the Andhra Naari
country. Sangh during the 79th Andhra Convention in Lautoka. Photo: Sanjay Goundar
“But beyond that struggle and suffering Acknowledging the founder of the Dakshi- come up with great institutions like Andhra is a generation back or multiple generations
what we all should look at is the light of hope na India Andhra Sangam of Fiji late Alpati Sangam that has gone on to serve the nation. like Fiji away from the land of your ances-
that they saw, the resilience and determination Tataiya, Shri Karthiyegan pointed out that it The high commissioner added that it is al- tors,the emotions I feel whenever I meet you
that saw them through and not just survive but is through people like him, who had the fore- ways a very emotional and a very humbling all cannot be explained in words.
thrive and contribute as a proud member of sight and vision many decades back to look experience for him whenever he meets with “For me it is like meeting the beloved mem-
this country . This is the lesson we all should beyond their self-interest and self-reservation people from the Indian diaspora. bers of my extended family.
take home.” and look at service to humanity that we have “Whatever time that separates us whether it

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

APRIL 25 - MAY 25, 2023 ADVERTISEMENT 9

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

10 AGRICULTURAL FEATURE APRIL 25 - MAY 25, 2023

Prasad heaps praises on East West Seeds

Quality Seeds Centre (QSC) shop based in Nausori Town is pleased with what East-West
Seeds has to offer to farmers.
James Prasad of QSC said the response from farmers has been very good since they started
selling the East-West Seeds products.
Though abit costly, Prasad said the quality it produces ia above all the other varieties.
He said they sell chemicals and seeds in their two- shops.
“The feedback from farmers is really good, and yield is great. It is abit expensive but East
West Seeds can handle any weather and the taste is also very different from other varieties,”
Prasad said.
The Nadali resident said seeds for sweet corn and long bean has been selling like hot cakes.
“The feedback for sweet corn and long bean has been overwhelming. The taste after harvest
is different and the quality is good.
“Even Extra Supermarket also buys it from us and it’s a big bonus for us.
“I can confidently say that the farmers are benefiting a lot by buying East West Seed,” Prasad
added.
QSC has two outlets. One is located at Kushal’s Building in Nausori Town while the other is
situated at the Nausori Market Section D.

Khan hopeful for a better 2023

Mobeen Khan of Manitawa, Ba, has been
a farmer for the past 45 years.
He has tried all varieties of seeds in his
farming career and is well versed with the
quality.
Khan said there is something different
about East West Seeds.
He started using the product last year and
is quite impressed.
“I’ve tried all other variety seeds but
this KK’s Hardware seed from East West
Seeds, the new variety is a good quality
seed. Ample brand is very good, Akira
Bean is hundred percent.
“I will try out the other seeds this year
and will wait for the outcome,” said Khan.
Meanwhile, Navin Prasad had a good
harvest of English Cabbage (Nuzaka F1),
Capsicum (Kaveri F1)and Bitter Gourd
(Palee F1) on his farm in Drasa, Lautoka.
Mr. Prasad also practiced inter-cropping
and planted Sweet Corn (Sugar King F1).
East-West Seed farmers are happy
farmers.
Avinesh Ram of Tuvu in Lautoka shows
off his harvest of Cucumber from his farm.
Mr Ram planted Hotwind, a cucumber
variety that is well known for its vibrant,
fresh and crunchy taste.
Hotwind cucumbers is preferably used
in Salads and pickles. It grows well in any
condition.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

APRIL 25 - MAY 25, 2023 INTERNATIONAL NEWS 11

Indian diaspora exceeds 34 million

Zareena Bi

Global powerhouse India now has more than 34 million peo-

ple of Indian diaspora around the world.
The Indian High Commissioner to Fiji Shri Palaniswamy
Subramanyan Karthigeyan made this revelation while offici-
ating as chief guest at the 79th annual Dakshina India Andhra
Sangam of Fiji convention at Lautoka’s Churchill Park recent-
ly.
According to the Indian High Commissioner this figure con-
stitutes to almost 40 times the population of Fiji.
“This is the number of diasporas across the world in almost
each and every country so we feel that we should have this
bond, not just have it but we should know how to find practical
measures to strengthen this cooperation with our diaspora.
“So as part of this focus, the government of India has taken
a number of initiatives to engage with the diaspora and has
extended a number of facilities to facilitate the increase in
strength and engagement of the task.
“The most prominent one is the overseas citizenship of In-
dia card (OCI) which is a lifelong visa that is offered by the
government of India and this is a multiple entry lifelong visa”.
The High Commissioner informed that this is available to
people of Indian origin provided that they have some docu-
mentary evidence to back up their claim.
“And this provides almost equal rights on par with the resi-
dent Indian national except the political right to enter into pub-
lic office and the right to own agricultural land.
“These are the only two things that are not given to us on the Indian High Commissioner to Fiji Shri Palaniswamy Subramanyan Karthigeyan (2nd from right) with members of the Dakshina
overseas Indian citizenship card but if you want to be a part of India Andhra Sangam of Fiji during their 79th annual convention in Lautoka earlier this month. Photo: Sanjay Goundar
the growth that is happening in India, you should engage in this
since this is only available to people of Indian origin. “This was the very first visit of a foreign minister of India to is a small testimony to the kind of focus that we are giving to
“The government of India also takes particular pleasure in Fiji and it was a prestigious global conference of a very large developing our relations with the Indian diaspora across the
celebrating the unique cultural linkage that you have been able scale. globe.
to forge through your ancestors on this land.” “The conference was attended by more than 1000 delegates “Also, the government of India is offering very special schol-
Shri Karthigeyan highlighted that about two months back, as and scholars from more than 30 countries around the world arships, whether it is in the general stream or in other streams
part of cultural outreach to Fiji the 12th World Hindi Confer- who came to this part of the world to celebrate this unique Indi- like culture which is only available to the Indian diaspora.
ence was organized in Nadi which was attended by the Exter- an culture, language and also unique cultural journey of Indian “There are also scholarships which we give to friendly for-
nal Affairs Minister of India Shri Subrahmanyam Jaishankar. diaspora across the world. eign countries and I wish to encourage you all to take advan-
“So, that initiative taken by the government of India, again tage of these opportunities.”

Defence review pulls no punches: China the biggest threat we face

Matthew Knott
(The Sydney morning Herald?

Angus Houston and Stephen Smith have delivered a blaring

wake-up call to any Australians who think they still live in a
sanctuary of safety at the southern edge of the Earth: you’re
living in the past.
To those inside and outside the Australian Defence Force
who think business-as-usual will cut it in the future: you’re
delusional.
Their message to anyone confused about the biggest threat to
Australia’s national security is similarly blunt: it is our largest
trading partner, China.
Like a pair of doctors delivering confronting news to an ill
patient, the two men tasked with reshaping Australia’s military
for the 21st century have opted for admirable candour in their
defence strategic review.
Rejecting vague language about rising tensions in the Indo-
Pacific, the former defence chief and defence minister call
out just one nation – China – for threatening Australia’s core
interests.
“China’s military build-up is now the largest and most
ambitious of any country since the end of the Second World
War,” they write in the declassified version of their review, a
slim volume of 110 pages that packs a hefty rhetorical punch.
While crediting China’s rise for boosting the Australian Just as Dibb deserved credit for not inflating the threat of explicit detail about China, including examining how Australia
economy, they say: “This build-up is occurring without war, Smith and Houston should be praised for explaining how could be drawn into a potential war over Taiwan.
transparency or reassurance to the Indo-Pacific region of the world has radically changed in the past 37 years. But while the review’s diagnoses are striking, the remedies
China’s strategic intent. “Major power competition in our region has the potential to being administered to revive the military so far lack the same
“China’s assertion of sovereignty over the South China Sea threaten our interests, including the potential for conflict,” they sense of scale and urgency.
threatens the global rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific in a write. While an outright invasion of the continent remains only The government has made some tough calls: most notably
way that adversely impacts Australia’s national interests. a “remote” possibility, they point out that adversaries could by slashing the number of new infantry fighting vehicles from
“China is also engaged in strategic competition in Australia’s seek to disrupt Australia’s crucial trade and supply routes and 450 to 129, a move that had been fiercely resisted by the army’s
near neighbourhood.” launch crippling cyberattacks on critical infrastructure assets. leadership.nBut other big decisions have been kicked down the
The last time Australia called in an outside expert for a check- “The rise of the ‘missile age’ in modern warfare, crystallised road, reflecting the fast pace of Smith and Houston’s eight-
up on the health of the military, the verdict was far rosier. by the proliferation of long-range precision strike weapons, has month review.
To read Paul Dibb’s landmark 1986 defence review today is radically reduced Australia’s geographic benefits, the comfort A separate review on the navy’s surface fleet will report
to travel back in time to the dying days of the Cold War, an era of distance and our qualitative regional capability edge,” they back later this year with possible recommendations to cut
when Australia could accurately be described as “one of the state.mThey say this will require the nation to adopt an entirely expensive frigates and patrol vessels. Similarly, a new two-
most secure countries in the world”. new defence doctrine, abandoning the previous view that yearly national defence strategy, to be launched next year, will
“Australia faces no identifiable military threat and there is Australia faced only low-level threats from a small or middle provide a “comprehensive outline of defence policy, planning,
every prospect that our favourable security circumstances will power. capabilities and resourcing” – exactly what had been expected
continue,” Dibb wrote. The classified version of Smith and Houston’s review – from Smith and Houston’s document. - Matthew Knott is the
“Global war between the superpowers is most unlikely and which has been kept secret from the public but is shaping the foreign affairs and national security correspondent for The
provides no basis for planning our force structure.” government’s thinking – is believed to go into even more Sydney Morning Herald and The Age

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

12 SPORTS APRIL 25 - MAY 25, 2023

Pitbull next for Davis ‘The Tank’

Gervonta Davis defeated Ryan Garcia on April 23 (Fiji Time) and is already thinking about
the next fight, according to his manager Calvin Ford, his best bet would be a rematch against the
Mexican boxer Isaac ‘Pitbull’ Cruz.
“I would say, Pitbull,” Ford responded in an interview with ES NEWS when asked about
which fight he preferred whether this rematch or the winner between Devin Haney and Vasyl
Lomachenko. I will always say Pitbull,” he replied.
Ford then was asked if this fight against the ‘Pitbull’ would set the record straight with the
WBA lightweight champion, since according to Takn, he had a hand injury. Without hesitation,
Ford answered yes.
“Yes, we want to prove that point. And I know he (Gervonta) wants that fight to beat him
again. It would be another huge fight,” he elaborated
Pitbull’ Cruz is the only opponent to take Gervonta Davis to a decision fight since 2014 when
they fought on December 5, 2021, with the judges giving the unanimous win to ‘Tank’ Davis
with close cards.
Meanwhile, it was a great night in Las Vegas.
After all, the catch weight main event between a championship-level operator in Gervonta Da-
vis and a blue-chip prospect-turned-contender in Ryan Garcia created a substantial buzz among
boxing types, drew a big crowd to the T-Mobile Arena and was positioned as pay-per-view
material on Showtime and DAZN.
None of those are bad things.
And the fact that it turned out to be a compelling, albeit mainly one-sided competition in the
ring, ultimately ended by Davis with a single body shot in Round 7 didn’t hurt a bit.
He was the favourite. He was the more established guy. He won.
That’s the good news.
But it’s not all good.
The mere fact a match at a made-up weight between two non-titleholders—remember, the
belt Davis holds at 135 pounds is a second tier at best and laughable at worst—was lauded as
perhaps the biggest happening of the gloved year is evidence far more indicative of lethargy than
a renaissance.
Not too long ago, a meeting between similarly unbeaten but beltless (and largely untested
against prime foes) commodities would have been a tasty appetizer to a more prestigious PPV
main course or perhaps a headline bout on a Saturday night card earmarked for premium cable
television.
These days, though, with promotional boundary lines boldly drawn and heavily fortified, it’s
gotten far harder to make the sort of fights that used to be considered transcendent. Al Haymon’s
fighters fight Al Haymon’s fighters. Bob Arum’s fighters fight Bob Arum’s fighters. And unless
a third party like Eddie Hearn or Lou DiBella or, in this case, Oscar De La Hoya, gets involved,
the talent pools don’t often mix. Gervonta Davis ‘The Tank’ is already eyeing a return to the ring after his recent knockout win
over Ryan Garcia. Photo: Supplied

Tough start for Fiji 7s in Toulouse

Maika Kasami

Fiji Airways Fiji 7s team will face an uphill battle when they
compete at the France 7s in Toulouse over May 12-14.
Fiji faces USA early Saturday morning at 12 57am, meets
South Africa at 7-03am before taking on host France at 12-
11am Sunday.
The national 7s team are currently on 130 points, Argentina
in second with 140 and New Zealand on top with 164.
With two – tournaments to go, the top four teams will quality
automatically to the 2024 Olympic Games.
Meanwhile, South Africa women and Tonga men took one
step closer towards promotion by winning the opening tourna-
ment of the World Rugby Sevens Challenger Series 2023 on
Saturday at Markötter Stadium.
Following three days of energy-sapping action in Stellen-
bosch, hosts South Africa dug deep to turn in an impressive
performance in the women’s final, coming from behind to beat
Belgium 17-10 in front of their home supporters.
In the men’s final, Tonga’s offensive firepower proved too
strong for Germany as they scored four tries in their 26-14 vic-
tory to close out the event.
With one tournament remaining in the Challenger Series, at-
tention now shifts to the second event on 28-30 April to decide
the aggregate men’s and women’s champions.
Hosts South Africa scored the only try in the first semi-final
to book a place in the final of the World Rugby Sevens Chal-
lenger Series 2023 when Simamkele Namba crossed the white-
wash, beating China 5-0. The Fiji team pictured with the Australian Womens 7s team after winning the Rugby World Cup 7s title last year in South Africa.
In the second women’s semi-final decider, Belgium out-
their European rivals 24-19. with a home ground advantage and passionate fans behind
played a confident Poland team on their way to their first ever
In the final, Belgium scored two quick tries in the opening them, South Africa dug deep in the second half, scoring twice
Challenger Series final. Belgium found themselves trailing
four minutes against South Africa, who managed to get one to win a hard-fought match.
14-5 at the half-time mark against the 2022 finalists, however
back through Ayanda Malinga to trail 10-5 at half-time. But
they managed to find another gear in the second half to edge

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

APRIL 25 - MAY 25, 2023 SPORTS 13

Viti Tennis Aussie tour a success

Maika Kasami

The Viti Tennis Academy players tour to Melbourne,

Australia has been hailed as a huge success.
The nine-member team were ably led Coach Krishneel
Kumar and Manager Roy Yu.
The 10-day tour saw the players play four-tournaments in
Melbourne which was based on Universal Tennis Ratings.
All the players in the team who were under the age of 18
played for the first time in a competition in Australia.
They played on all the surfaces such as, Hard Courts, Grass
Courts and Clay Courts.
Kumar said it was a an eye opener and great exposure for his
players.
He said the tour was indeed a great step forward to upskilling
the local players to another level
“This tour has given them the confidence to be able to play
on any court surfaces.
The players also joined in the training sessions with club
based players while in Australia.”
He said the players also took time out to play in Melbourne
Park Courts which is National Tennis Centre and home to
Australian Open event.
“This was something the players had only dreamt of and to The Viti Tennis team with the trophy after their win in Melbourne, Australia. The tour for the youngsters has been hailed as a
actually be there has been a wonderful experience.” huge success. Photo: Supplied.
Indeed a great step taken forward by a local coach in tournaments as well and are going to represent Fiji in Vanuatu There are 2 more tours planned for this year. One of them is
upskilling the players to the next level. for West Pacific tournament upon return. the Japan Tour. Team breakdown: Coach - Krishneel Kumar,
Players were able to improve on match play and tactical part All the players are looking forward to progress and enhance Manager- Roy Yu.
of their game after the completion of this tour. their skills in tennis career. These players are trained at Nadi Players: Aryan Lal, Jack Lee, Frank sun, Rezwan khan, Jack
A few players in the team have played at the Junior ITF Sports and Social Club and Regional Tennis Centre Lautoka. Gao, Bing Low, Vignesh Das, Aahil Ali, Dev Thakur.

McDonald’s League kicks off

Maika Kasami Talent Developmen

Fiji FA kicked off its Talent Development League on April

15 in Lautoka.
Kindly sponsored by McDonald’s, the aim of the League
is to identify talents from a young age and to provide a
bigger pool of players for the National Mens and Womens
team.
While launching the League at Lautoka Methodist School
grounds, Fiji FA vice-president Aiyaz Musa said it was a
proud moment for the parent body to kick-off the talent
development league in Lautoka and at various other venues
around the country.
Musa said the McDonald’s League will provide every
talent a chance which is the FIFA development scheme
slogan ‘Every Talent Deserves a Chance’.
“It is for the first time we target the golden age which is
crucial to maximise football development in Fiji.
“And at this juncture I would like to thank McDonald’s
who have agreed to come on board with Fiji FA to work
hand in hand to ensure that we continue developing talents
which will bear fruit not overnight but in a couple of years
to come. This is a beginning of a journey to come and I
take this time to thank our president Rajesh Patel and the
whole Board for their support in taking this initiative,”
Musa added.
The League is being played in a mix format to give equal The Methodist Primary U-13 mix soccer team participating in this years McDonald’s Talent Development League in Lautoka.
opportunities to both girls and boys in the Under 9 to U15. Photo: Sanjay Goundar

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

14 SPORTS
Team Rakiraki turn heads at West Pennants
Maika Kasami
Rakiraki Bowling Club team turned heads when they caused the biggest upset in the first week
of the Islands Electric Western Pennants Fours tournament at the Nadi Sports & Social Club on
April 16.
The side defeated Hutson Cup champions Lautoka in two-straight games.
With the only experience in the team being Skip Josaia Jare, a former representative of the
now defunct RBC, the team of Rajiv Lal, Davendra Mudaliar, Aaron Pillay, Hirdesh Kumar
surprised the Sugar City side with their never-say-die effort.
The tournament is being played on selected weekends with each of the western sides in Ra-
kiraki, Sheraton, Nadi, Lautoka and Ba hosting one weekend of games.
Each weekend teams play two-games against one another with each teams having to register
six players in a team.
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
APRIL 25 - MAY 25, 2023
Team Rakiraki and Team Ba pictured with newly elected Fiji Bowls president Bobby Prasad
during the IEW sponsored Week 1 Western Pennants tournament in Nadi.
Photos: Maika Kasami
(Left Photo) The victorious Rakiraki Bowling Club team after winning two matches against
Lautoka in Week 1 of the IEW sponsored Western Pennants tournament in Nadi.
Rakiraki will play host to the next set of matches that will be played at the end of May at Lau-
toka Bowling Club as there are no greens in Ra.
Tournament coordinator Santokh Singh said IEW’s $1500 sponsorship was timely to lift the
standard of bowls to another level.
“We want to develop this sport further, to improve the skill level of players and eventually
making Fiji a powerhouse in bowling internationally,” Singh said.
“With each of the round robin games we have introduced ‘Power Play’, “
Bowls Fiji newly elected president Bobby Prasad said bowls was now taking a new direction
in Fiji with the aim to have Fiji represented at most of the bowls sanctioned events.
Sponsor Raymond Singh said with this vision he was happy to provide the incentives to par-
ticipants.
The House Of Beauty - 10 Nede Street , Lautoka PH / 2823060 ( Follow us on FB & IG)
APRIL 25 - MAY 25, 2023 SPORTS
Rewa maintains League lead
Maika Kasami
Rewa FC remains unbeaten after Week 6 of the Digicel Fiji Premier League.
The Delta Tigers proved too strong for Lautoka in the top of the table clash in Week 5
winning 5-1 before accounting for Nadi 3-2 in a closely contested match in Week 6 on April
23.
The Reds lead the DFPL on 16points.
The Blues bounced back from the loss in Nausori to edge O-League bound Suva 2-1. The
Capital City side led 1-0 via a penalty kick from lanky forward Rusiate Matarerega before
nippy Aporosa Yada and then current National League top goal scorer Sairusi Nalaubu
grabbing the winner late in the second spell.
With the crucial win, the Roneel Kumar coached Sugar City side remains in second spot on
13points.
Along with Rewa, Labasa recorded their third straight win on the trot. The Lions beat Navua
Suva to host 2024 Sangam Convention
Maika Kasami
Rifle Range TIV of Lautoka will defend their Super Premier title at the HFC Bank Stadium
during the Easter weekend next year.
Rifle Range TIV edged Nadi TIV 1nil in the in this year’s final courtesy of an Edward Justin
first half header to lift the prestigious Sangam TIV cup and $10,000.
It took them 30-years to finally break the winless drought.
The Ritesh Chauhan coached side upset defending champs Lautoka 2-0 in the semis while
Nadi TIV beat Ba TIV by the same scoreline in the other semis.
Victoria TIV edged Queensland TIV in the Premier final in the penalty shootout.
Chauhan said it has been worth the wait to finally win the Sangam title.
He attributed the win to the discipline shown by his players.
“The players showed alot of character to play their hearts out and win it for Rifle Range TIV.
We had been trying for so long and to finally achieve it is a dream come true for team.
“I must thank all those involved with the team and to see all the efforts rewarded with this win
against the host who were surely the favourites having being in the final for a number of years
recently,” Chauhan said.
Rifle Range were ably led by current Ba district rep Pranil Naidu.
The victorious Rifle Range TIV with the spoils after ending a 30-year drought to lift the 2023
Sangam Convention Super Premier title in Nadi. Photo: Maika Kasami
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
15
1nil to secure fifth spot with 10points equal with Suva who lie on fourth with a better goal
average.
Nadroga recorded their second win this season, a 2-1 win over Tailevu Naitasiri which
pushes them to 6points in eighth spot, a position which they will want to maintain after Week
7 to secure a place in the upcoming Fiji FACT.
Navua and Tavua remain winless in the competition so far sitting with 3points and 1point
respectively.
With a round to play before the top eight teams are confirmed for the Digicel Fiji FACT, the
likes of Rewa, Lautoka, Ba, Suva, Labasa and Nadi have surely secured their places.
The Fiji FACT is expected to be played in later May.
Week 6 results: Ba 3-2 Tavua, Navua 0-1 Labasa, Nadi 2-3 Rewa, Suva 1-2 Lautoka,
Nadroga 2-1 T/ Naitasiri.
Standings: Rewa- 16points, Lautoka-15, Ba-11, Suva-10, Labasa-10, Nadi-9, T/Naitasiri- 6,
Nadroga-6, Navua -3, Tavua-1.
Jasper, NAT lead western charge
The Jasper senior girls 4 x 400metre winning team from the Lautoka zone hoping to repeat the
similar feat at the annual coke games in Suva later this week. Photo: Sanjay Goundar
Maika Kasami
Jasper Williams High School for the girls and Natabua High School for the boys have high
hopes of performing well at this year’s Coke Games in Suva over April 27-29.
Both schools yet again stamped their mark during the Lautoka/Yasawa Zone meet winning top
honours in their respective grades.
Along with other schools from the western division, the two schools boasting a bigger con-
tingent will spearhead the west based schools in their quest to go head to head with the Eastern
and Southern based schools.
NAT and Jasper are expected to compete well in the track events with a sprinkle of athletes
also eyeing medals in the field events.
Girls division:
Jasper 28-gold, 16-silver, 13-bronze; NAT: 16-gold, 12-silver, 6-bronze; Ba Pro: 2-gold, 6-sil-
ver, 3bronze; Central College: 2-gold, 2-silver, 5-bronze; Drasa Sec: 1-gold, 5-silver, 4-bronze;
St Thomas: 1-gold, 5-silver, 2-bronze; Pundit Vishnu Deo: 1-gold, 1-silver, 5-bronze.
Boys division
Natabua High: 32-gold, 18-silver, 9-bronze; Tilak: 6-gold, 4-silver, 5-bronze; Central College:
3-gold, 10-silver, 6-bronze; Pundit Vishnu Deo: 3-gold, 2silver, 2-bronze; St Thomas: 2-gold,
8-silver, 5-bronze; Lautoka Muslim College: 2-gold, 1-silver, 5-bronze; Yasawa High: 1-gold,
2-silver, 1-bronze.
16 APRIL 25 - MAY 25, 2023

Fiji U20’s baptism with Fire

Maika Kasami

The Digicel Junior Bula Boys now know their opponents

at the FIFA Under 20 World Cup and it would be another
opportunity for the minnows to be recognised internationally.
The Roneel Lal coached side who are being assisted by
Marika Rodu are currently in Gold Coast, Australia for several
build up matches.
The side had featured in the Tri-Nation series at Churchill
Park last month that featured senior national teams from
Vanuatu and Solomon Islands.
The tournament provided a great exposure for the Bula Boys
playing against players who were much older than them.
This year’s FIFA U20 World Cup has been shifted to
Argentina from Indonesia.
Our national U20 side open their campaign against Slovakia
on May 21.
They then face USA in their second outing on May 24 before
ending their group fixture against Ecuador on May 27.
Ukraine are the defending champions and they are not part
of this years World Cup.
Host Argentina, who are the most successful team in the
competition with six-titles, will have the opportunity to add
another world title to their trophy cabinet after the senior
national teams world cup triumph in November last year in
Qatar.
Group A: Argentina, Guatemala, New Zealand, Uzbekistan;
Group B: Ecuador, Fiji, Slovakia, USA; Group C; Colombia,
Israel, Japan, Senegal; Group D: Brazil, Dominican Republic,
Italy, Nigeria; Group E: England, Iraq, Tunisia, Uruguay; The Digicel Fiji Under 20 side pictured in Gold Coast, Australia as they continue their build up matches towards the FIFA U20
Group F: France, Gambia, Honduras, South Korea. Word Cup to be held in Argentina in May. Photo: Supplied.

Man Utd face Man City in FA Cup final

Source: Eurosport

Erik ten Hag has promised that his side will “give every-
thing” to dent Manchester City’s treble bid and secure a sec-
ond piece of silverware this season.
United overcame Brighton in a tense penalty shoot-out
after a 0-0 draw at Wembley on Sunday to set up a first
all-Manchester FA Cup final on June 3.
Ten Hag will be bidding to add the FA Cup to the Carabao
Cup already won in his first season in charge at Old Trafford.
But victory over City would also stop City from equalling
United’s achievement of 1999 in winning a treble of Premier
League title, FA Cup and Champions League.
“We will give everything and when I say everything, that is
everything,” the United manager said. “So the fans can rely
on that – that we will give it and do it against every opponent.
“But, of course, we want to give that against City. We want
to give the fans that, for sure.” City, who beat Sheffield Unit-
ed to reach the Cup final, can take a significant step towards
a fifth league title in six seasons by defeating leaders Arsenal
at the Etihad Stadium on Wednesday and face Real Madrid
in the Champions League semi-finals. Ten Hag, whose side
beat City 2-1 in the league in January, admitted his team will
have to play “the perfect game” to beat Pep Guardiola’s men
again. “We are proof, proof that we could beat them but then
we have to play the perfect game,” he said. “I think that [in
January] was the perfect game we played this season but we Manchester United players celebrate their FA Cup semifinal win over Brighton on penalty kicks 7-6 at Wembley Stadium
have to go again.”The FA Cup final will take place on Satur- Monday morning April 24 Fiji Time. Photo: Supplied.
day, June 3 2023.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA