In a groundbreaking milestone for the Tamil language in Fiji and the Pacific region, the Tamil Teaching Programme was officially launched today.
Funded by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs and implemented in collaboration with the Fijian Ministry of Education, the Fiji Government, and TISI Sangam, this initiative seeks to preserve and revitalise one of the world’s oldest classical languages.
Two Tamil teachers from India will be stationed at Sangam schools in Rakiraki and Labasa to educate and inspire future generations. This marks a significant step forward in promoting Tamil culture and language among Fiji’s South Indian diaspora.
The Then India Sanmarga Ikya Sangam (TISI Sangam) was founded in 1926 in Nadi by Sadhu Kuppuswamy, an indentured labourer turned spiritual leader. Influenced by Swami Vivekananda and other Indian saints, Sadhu Kuppuswamy dedicated his life to uniting Fiji’s South Indian community and fostering cultural and linguistic heritage. The organisation, initially centred around the iconic Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple in Nadi, has grown into a cornerstone of South Indian identity in Fiji.
Dr Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, India’s Minister for External Affairs, has been a strong proponent of cultural preservation. Last year, during his visit to the Sri Siva Subramaniya Swami Temple last year, he committed to assisting with language and cultural education in Fiji. The introduction of Tamil teachers is a direct outcome of these discussions.
By strengthening ties between Fiji and Tamil Nadu, it ensures the survival of Tamil language and culture in Fiji for future generations. (Australia Today)
