50% of girls and young women from six Pacific countries surveyed as part of recent research reported missing out on school due to climate events, with 74% of surveyed girls in Tuvalu having this experience.
“Fiji and India have a special bond that spans 145 years. Our bilateral relations continue to grow, particularly in areas such as health, education, digital transformation, and regional cooperation.”
The project also aims to provide vocational and educational opportunities for women and girls in marginalized communities, fostering climate, economic, and social resilience.
Addressing development partners, DPM Prasad emphasised that the government’s vision extends beyond financial stability, focusing on economic expansion, job creation, and income generation.
The discussions align with Fiji’s broader efforts to boost collaboration with India in key sectors, including infrastructure development, renewable energy, climate change, healthcare, IT, education, and sustainable agriculture.
High Commissioner Mehta emphasised the vast potential for growth in the Fiji-India relationship, noting India’s intention to enhance its partnership with Fiji.
As a strong advocate for media freedom, academic freedom, and knowledge creation, Prof. Prasad highlighted that the government had restored USP’s annual Government of Fiji grant funding, which had been halted by the previous administration.
The facility was officially opened by President Ratu Naiqama Lalabalavu at the Sri Sathya Sai Sanjeevani Children’s Hospital in Suva, strengthening the country’s ability to diagnose and treat complex cardiac conditions locally.