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ON the grounds of a humble school, where history and legacy intertwined, a commemorative gathering was held on Wednesday to celebrate the life and impact of one of Fiji’s greatest sons, Ratu Sir Josefa Lalabalavu Vanayaliyali Sukuna.
It was not just a ceremony of remembrance but a reaffirmation of identity, resilience, and national pride.
Speaking during the commemoration held at Ratu Sukuana Memorial School, chief guest and Great Council of Chiefs chairman Ratu Viliame Seruvakula recalled his own youthful days at the Nabua school.
“Here at the school where 50 years ago, I sat where you are today to celebrate,” Ratu Viliame said.
“Ratu Sukuna’s legacy, as remembered during the ceremony, was deeply embedded in the nation’s fabric, a legacy of service, education, and cultural integrity.
“His life exemplified dedication to duty, leadership, education and service to the government and the people of Fiji.”
The soldier statesman
Born into a time of colonial rule, Ratu Sukuna rose to become a formidable leader, both in thought and in action.
He was the first Fijian to earn a university degree and the first to serve in the French Foreign Legion.
His journey from scholar to soldier to statesman was detailed in two seminal works by the late Pacific historian Dr Derek Scarr — Ratu Sukuna: Soldier, Statesman, Man of Two Worlds and Fiji: The Three-Legged Stool.
“These books to you students are a treasure trove of narratives and reports and insights reflecting extensive research and distinguished scholarship,” Ratu Viliame said.
“They will not only deepen your understanding of our history but will also help guide you as future leaders of our country.”
He said Ratu Sukuna’s teachings focused on balancing modern progress with the preservation of Fijian tradition.
“He believed in empowering Fijians through education, promoting Fijian culture and traditions, and finding ways to integrate modern progress with traditional values.”
A vision grounded in unity
In a time when Fiji navigated colonial constraints, Ratu Sukuna laid the groundwork for independence, a vision not universally appreciated during his lifetime.
“Though at times, he has been unfairly criticised, what we need to recognise is the fact that he lived in the days when the colonial government was in power,” he said.
“But to be able to lay the foundation for independence that we enjoy today is worthy, putting aside a day to commemorate the life of a true son of our nation.”
Ratu Sukuna Day is more than a ceremonial tradition; it is a national statement of continuity and respect.
It is also a reminder of the potential for transformation through unity and vision.
From grounds to greatness
As part of the celebration, the event also marked the groundbreaking ceremony for the renovation of the school’s sports grounds.
With members of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) present, the effort symbolised new hope for student athletes.
“I can see our soldiers from the RFMF are here this (Wednesday) morning with their machine, raring to go to create a safe and inspiring space where students can pursue their dreams in sports and recreation,” Ratu Viliame said.
“It was on this very ground, I remember, as a young student, I had my first discus throw somewhere in the corner there, and went on to set a record for the school’s Coca-Cola Games that lasted only for 24 years.”
He said the physical renewal of the school grounds aligned with a broader social and cultural renaissance, a vision shared by the GCC, whose members have renewed their support for education and heritage preservation following the reopening of the Vale ni Bose.
A call to youth
Ratu Viliame’s address concluded with a challenge and a call to action for the youths of Fiji.
“Today’s youths, face a range of challenges, from unemployment and limited access to quality education to cultural disconnection that may have led to drug usage in some way have led to increase of HIV and the influence of rapid globalisation,” he shared.
“The Great Council of Chiefs envisions a generation of empowered youth who are grounded in their heritage, equipped with modern skills, and inspired to lead.
“How do we get there from where we are today? We really all need to work together.”
Ratu Sukuna’s enduring message
As Fiji stands on the threshold of new growth and generational change, the values of Ratu Sukuna continue to resonate.
His legacy was not frozen in history books or annual observances alone; it lived on in every young Fijian inspired to serve with integrity, learn with curiosity, and lead with vision.
“The late statesman Ratu Sukuna’s vision has brought us this far as a nation,” Ratu Seruvakula concluded.
“The question for you students today is what, how, and where shall we progress to while keeping his vision and practicalise his thoughts in these modern days and challenging times.”
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