Officiating at the Girmit sports Day celebration in Albert Park Suva, on Saturday(13:05:23), Minister of Youth and Sports Hon. Jese Saukuru stated that this is a very special time for Fiji as it comes together as a nation to commemorate the arrival of indentured labourers 144 years ago.
Minister of Youth and Sports Hon.Jese Saukuru said today, is the dau we should all celebrate and acknowledge the presence of so many of our elders and pioneer year of Fiji Girmit Community as we commemorate an important era in our nation's history.
"The main message that I want to convey to you today is that the Girmit story isn't a story confined to one community in Fiji. It is a story that belongs to all of us_ an inspirational chapter of the story of the development of our nation as the
whole. It is a story to be told and retold.Because its relevance to our present and our future.They set an example of endurance,teamwork and sacrifice in the service of our nation.And it is an example for every Fijian to follow.An inspiration to us all" he said.
They contribute immeasurably to the Agriculture sector, by the contribution of the migrants Indian population, who are known for their skills in agriculture. Indentured labourers also solved the problem of labour scarcity in the short run.
Minister Saukuru said that the Girmit day also allows us the opportunity to go back in time, playing games that originated from the Indian sub-continent. To name a few" Gilli Danda", the game is played with two sticks; a larger one called a danda which is used to hit a small one. Second is called the "Kite Flying", we all know that Kite flying hobby has been transformed into a sport when advanced kites have been developed with multiple lines, which allows for higher control of kites.
Your Government through the Ministry Youth and Sports take pride in developing young people in physical activity and Sports. We provide an avenue for many young Fijian to achieve their dreams while other improve their health.