76 individuals awarded at Nation-
al Honour Roll - Page 6
VOLUME 7 NO: 10 SERVING THE COMMUNITY OF FIJI WITH PASSION FEBRUARY 25, 2017 - MARCH 25, 2017 PRICE: 50 CENTS
Time to tackle climate change
Sanjay Goundar
Fiji intends to do everything in
its power to persuade the global
community to tackle the root
cause of the extreme weather
events such as tropical Cyclone
Winston that are causing so
much pain for our own people
and the citizens of other vulner-
able nations around the world.
President Major General (Re-
tired) Jioji Konrote revealed this
as the country marked the first
anniversary of the most devastat-
ing Tropical Cyclone to hit Fiji
TC Winston on February 20.
Speaking at the national
service of remembrance and
thanksgiving of the anniversary
of TC Winston Konrote stressed
that we must get the community
of nations to continue reducing
the carbon emissions that are
causing global warming.
This is a fight that we must
win. Our entire way of life is at
stake. And that is why Fiji is tak-
ing a leadership role in the world
to persuade the industrial nations
to act decisively before it is too
late.
As you know, our Prime
Minister has been given the task
of moving the current global cli-
mate negotiations forward. As
incoming President of COP 23,
the Prime Minister will preside
over the deliberations of nearly
200 countries when they again
gather in Bonn, Germany, in No-
2017 Prefect Induction Special
Coverage - Page 3, 7, 10, 12, 13
vember. His job is to keep them
committed to the carbon emis-
sion reduction targets contained
in the Paris Agreement of 2015.
Let there be no doubt about
the magnitude of the task that
Fiji has been given. It is eas-
ily the biggest responsibility the
world has ever asked us to take
on as a people. The prayers and
best wishes of every Fijian go
with the Prime Minister as he
embarks on this mission.
Mr Konrote stressed that
February 20 along with being
`a day of remembrance, a day
of great emotion is also a day of
thanksgiving, of expressing our
gratitude to Almighty God for
sparing much of our nation and
especially those areas on which
our economy depends.
He emphasized that the coun-
try was extremely fortunate that
our main tourism areas were out
of Winstons direct path.
Today is also a day of celebra-
tion a celebration of the Fijian
spirit of caring and the many
friends we have in the world. It
is a wonderful reflection on our
nation that in their hour of need,
those who suffered were not
alone. Their fellow Fijians were
there to extend a helping hand.
The President also thanked
many individuals, organisations
and foreign governments for as-
sisting those who were drasti-
Jasper Williams High Schools two Head Girls Fedora Jacob (left) and
cally affected by the cyclone.
Edwina Metusela after the schools Prefect Induction function. Photo: Sanjay
Goundar Article on Page 10
02 NEWS

Major Japanese aid for Lovu Sangam

FEBRUARY 25, 2017

Lovu Sangam School Head Teacher Anjali Ratnam shows Japanese Envoy to Fiji Mr Takuji Japanese High Commissioner to Fiji Mr Takuji Hanatani officially opens one of the new class
Hanatani the setup inside one of the new classrooms Photos: Sanjay Goundar room blocks at Lovu Sangam School

Zareena Bi
A rural school in the west has been the fortunate recipient of
around one hundred seventy five thousand worth of assistance
from the Government of Japan.
Late last month the Ambassador of Japan in Fiji Mr Takuji
Hanatani handed over a new four classroom block with furni-
ture to Lovu Sangam High School in Lautoka.
During the handover he sympathized with the school for
the difficulties it endured in 2013 when termite infestation de-
stroyed the four classroom block.
The construction of a new classroom furnished with new
desks and chairs will provide a conducive environment for de-
livery of quality education and restore normalcy to the schools
affected facilities.
This project is in line with both Fijis national development
initiative for education and the United Nations 2030 Agenda
for Sustainable Development.
Such harmonization is key to Japans development coop-
eration and our contribution to this project.
The Ambassador informed that since 1990, Japan has pro-
vided continued assistance to grassroots communities in Fiji
by implementing 345 Grassroots Human Security Projects
(GGP) worth more than twenty million US dollars (USD20m).
He added that the GGP Programme is part of the overall
Official development Assistance (ODA) implemented by the
embassy oof Japan in order to empower the people and the
community from the grassroots level.
He also acknowledged the Then India Sanmarga Ikya (TISI)
Sangams immense contribution to Fijis education sector
since its establishment in 1926.
Today, TISI Sangam operates 21 primary, 5 secondary, an
Institute of Technology and a school of Nursing.
Such accomplishments are practical contributions to nation
building in Fiji.
I urge the students of Lovu Sangam School to work hard
and give your best as it is through education that one day you
will be successful in your lives and be able to make a meaning-
ful contribution to your community and your country.
Meanwhile, the Ambassador expressed his confidence that
this project will further strengthen friendship between the peo-
ple and governments of Japan and Fiji.
School Head Anjali Ratnam while thanking the Govern-
ment of Japan for the timely assistance revealed that classes
at the school were significantly affected after the infestation
of termites in the classrooms. She informed the shortage of
classrooms forced other facilities such as computer room and
library to be temporarily used for teaching.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 NEWS 03

Stand up as successful leaders

FEBRUARY 25, 2017

Sanjay Goundar

Newly inducted prefects of Lautoka Central College have

been advised that failure should not deter them in becoming
successful leaders of the institute.
Speaking at the schools annual prefects investiture cer-
emony on February 14, Senior Education Officer Lautoka/
Yasawa / Nadi Ratu Josefa Gavidi told the young leaders that
failure is a part of life but how fast one can stand up, how
good you can change your attitude and the ways that you are
is what will make you a successful person.
Your parents will support you while your teachers will
guide you to know the way as prefects.
But following that way or path is entirely up to you as
prefects and nobody will be able to take your hand and force
you down that path.
As head boy or head girl and as school prefects you have
to lead the way among other students and nobody from out-
side will come and teach you this qualities.
As prefects of Central College in 2017 you will fail on
different occasions but how fast you stand up will decide how
successful you will be as leaders this year, he emphasized.
Gavidi also reminded rest of the students of Central Col-
lege that failing examinations does not mean you are a failure
but it means that you have to study harder to achieve results
Newly inducted Prefects of Central Colllege with their teachers and invited guests Photos: Sanjay Goundar
the next time.
He stressed that time management is also very important then put in the category of failures. As students or prefects you need to keep standing up
in the daily lives of students in order to achieve good results. We have to realize that there is no one in this world who and do not allow failures as stumbling block in your life.
However, those who do not attempt to work towards im- has never failed in their life but commendable are those who Meanwhile, a total of 150 school monitors and prefects
proving their performance and keep failing their exams are stand up quickly and work towards success after a failure. were inducted at the schools investiture ceremony.

Chief Guest Ratu Josefa Gavidi with the Head Boy Vilash Deo and Head Girl Hannah Mario The newly inducted deputy head boy and head girls of Central College with the chief guest
of Central College

Bhavish Achari highest achiever in Year 12 (FSLC) Highest achiever in Year 10 (FJC) Anujin Tumentayar Danisha Kumar gets inducted as one of the deputy headgirls

Office now located at: 20 Ravouvou Street, Lautoka

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
04 LAUTOKA CITY COUNCIL NEWS FEBRUARY 25, 2017

Nakauvadra encourages special Prefects

Lautoka City Council CEO Mr Jone Nakauvadra (middle) with the newly inducted prefects and teachers of Lautoka City Council CEO Jone Nakauvadra with the Head Boy Ratu Solomoni
Sunshine Special School in Lautoka. Photos: Sanjay Goundar
Zareena Bi
The beginning of the school year brings with it the tradition of choosing and inducting school
prefects who lead their peers for the rest of the year.
This tradition is not only followed by mainstream schools as the Special Schools also follow
this path in developing leadership skills amongst their students.
The Sunshine Special School in Lautoka held their prefect induction program for nine of their
chosen leaders on February 14.
During the function Chief Guest, Lautoka City Council Chief Executive Officer Mr Jone Na-
kauvadra advised the prefects that they have now become role models and they need to lead by
example and live a disciplined life.
Todays induction ceremony is to honour a select group of students as prefects for the year.
Your teachers have seen your attitude, behavior and achievements and agreed that you should
be given a leadership role amongst your peers.
Inoke and Head Girl Meresiana Leba of Sunshine Special School.
Being given this recognition and trust over others is not a responsibility that one should take
lightly.
Such trust should never be abused, instead it should be channeled to engage, motivate and
inspire those you are responsible for; to be the best they can be academically as well as at a
personal level.
The CEO also reminded the prefects that they have now become the agents of change and they
need to assist their teachers and fellow students to aspire for higher callings for their school.
He quoted the renowned management specialist Peter Druckerss words of motivation for the
leaders: Leadership is lifting a persons vision to high sights, the raising of a persons perfor-
mance to a higher standard, the building of a personality beyond its normal limitations.
Mr Nakauvadra whished the prefects well for their new roles and advised them to carry out
their responsibilities throughout the year with diligence, firmness and compassion when the oc-
casion calls for it.

LAUTOKA CITY COUNCIL TO ALL RATESPAYERS OF LAUTOKA CITY

Kindly be advised that Rates for 2017 is now due and ratepayers are advised to ake advantage of the following
concessions:
1. DISCOUNT ON 2017 RATES
The council is offering the following incentives on Full Payment of 2017 rates:
7% Discount on 2017 rates if fully settled by January 31, 2017
5% Discount on 2017 rates if fully settled by February 28, 2017
3% Discount on 2017 rates if fully settled by March 31, 2017

2. 100% WAIVER ON INTEREST

An Amnesty Period of 90 days (1st January 31st March 2017) has been initiated
by Government whereby a 100% waiver on interest is offered to ratepayers who
settle their arrears in full during this period.

3. CASHIER OPENING HOURS (Jan 1st Mar 31st)

Monday to Friday 8.00am to 5.00pm

Saturdays 8.00am to 1.00pm

Kindly visit our office or call us on 666 0433 ext 119,120, 121& 123 or email us on rates@lcc.com.fj

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Jone Nakauvadra
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
FEBRUARY 25, 2017 LAUTOKA CITY COUNCIL NEWS 05
Commendation for Municipal Councils church groups, informal settlers and so forth.
The Minister also stressed on the Fijis resolutions on climate change, adaptability and mitiga-
tion.
It is important for Councils to engage in partnerships with climate change agencies and see if
their programs can be adapted for local conditions.
It is not enough to bring attention to climate change and how it affects small island nations like
Fiji. it is equally important, that we take a lead role in our responses to climate change.
We have to make sure that we all contribute towards bringing about sustainable development
in Fiji that reduces our carbon footprint and contributes to climate change mitigation.
Meanwhile, the Municipal councils that received awards were as follows;

Savusavu Town Council for Installing Solar Windmill for street lights in its bid to provide alter-
native energy resources to the community

Nadi Town Council for their storm water management through drainage

Nausori Town council for promoting business opportunities

Lautoka City Council for upholding cleanliness and tidiness and improved beautification pro-
grams

Suva City Council for their efforts in implementing Capital Development projects.

Local Government Minister Praveen Bala presenting the Cleanliness and Tidiness & Im- Nadi Town
proved beautification program award to LCC CEO Jone Nakauvadra. Photos: Sanjay Council Special
Goundar Administra-
Zareena Bi tor Robin Ali
receives Storm
The awards that you are receiving tonight should impel you both now and in the years to come Water Manage-
to strive for excellence in service delivery. ment through
These sentiments were echoed by the Minister for Local Government, Housing, Environment, drainage
Infrastructure & Transport Mr. Parveen Kumar Bala during the Local Government Municipal program
recognition night at the Waterfront Hotel on February 3. award from
This award night is with a difference. First, the Ministry recognizes councils initiatives on Local Govern-
your responsiveness to post natural events such as Winston. ment Minister
Secondly, we are embarking on a culture of performance. We have set targets and actions that Praveen Bala
will take us to our desired targets this year.
Councils are encouraged and will be closely monitored and assessed on their level of engaging
with their communities; be it ratepayers, students within municipalities, youths, elderly persons,

LAUTOKA CITY COUNCIL

FREE ENVIRONMENT CLEAN UP CAMPAIGN
MARCH 6, 2017 - MARCH 17, 2017
1. Lautoka City Council will conduct "FREE ENVIRONMENT CLEAN UP CAMPAIGN" effective from March 6, 2017 to March 17, 2017.

2. Residents are requested to take advantage of the "Free Environment Clean Up Campaign" and to thoroughly clean up their compounds taking
special care in removing any articles, containers or wastes likely to retain water and harbour mosquitoes, such as empty cans, bottles, old tyres,
coconut shells, discarded household utensils, etc.

3. Please take note that this "Free Environment Clean Up Campaign" is for residential areas only and includes removal of all backyard waste such as
tree branches, grass etc. and not for industrial refuse, trade waste or commercial refuse. For commercial and industrial waste such as tires and other
mosquito breeding materials, the council will waive all disposal fees if refuse is taken by owners to the Vunato Disposal Site from March 6, 2017 to
March 17, 2017.

4. The collection team will go through the area once only and the council will not be responsible for the removal of any refuse placed after the
allocated timeframe.

5. All residents are also requested to put their refuse for removal prior to the collection week or any time before the trucks come to the area in a
convenient place away from fire hydrants, water valves, water meters, sewerage chambers, telephone and electrical pillar boxes and also to avoid
blocking driveways or access ways.

6. Any person found abandoning or depositing refuse/litter without prior arrangement with council will be issued spot fine of $40.00 under Litter
Promulgation 2008.

7. For any other enquiries please contact council on 6660433 or Director Health Services on 9908553 or Manager Health Services on 9908485.
Corporate bodies and companies who want to participate and contribute in cleaning public places such as reserves, creeks, water streams, special
areas, parks etc. are requested to register their interests with LAUTOKA CITY COUNCIL.

LET'S JOIN HANDS TOGETHER IN KEEPING OUR ENVIRONMENT AND LAUTOKA CITY CLEAN AND BEAUTIFUL!

JONE Q. NAKAUVADRA
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
06 NEWS FEBRUARY 25, 2017

EDITORIAL Flying the Soroptimist flag high

COMMENT
Cyclone Winston: One year on
WHILE things can be rebuilt or replaced, our loved
ones are gone forever.

Names and faces unknown to many Fijians but not to

those they left behind.

The one-year anniversary of Tropical Cyclone Win-

ston was marked on February 20 at Albert Park in
Suva where the His Excellency the President Jioji
Konousi Konrote revealed that the roll call of the
fallen in one of the worst disasters perhaps the
worst-that nature has ever inflicted on our people.

They were mothers and fathers, grandmothers and

grandfathers, sons and daughters, brothers and sis-
ters, aunties, uncles, cousins and friends. Ordinary
Fijians who are the backbone of our nation. Now
gone but who we are determined never to forget.

As reported by Radio New Zealand, trauma is still

rife and life remains hard for many of the survivors
of Cyclone Winston which hit Fiji a year ago.

Winston was the worst storm in Fijis recorded histo-

ry, killing 44 people and leaving thousands in make-
shift shacks and tents.

Some areas have seen up to 90 percent damage, in-

cluding to cash crops.
Four-hundred schools throughout Fiji were ruined or
damaged in the cyclone and hundreds of children are
still learning in tents, but the government has brushed
off criticism that the rebuild is taking too long.
Mr Sayed-Khaiyum, the Minster of Economy said the
shortage of material and builders had contributed to
delays.
The government expects cyclone reconstruction to
drive the economy this year.
It has been pushing the message that Fiji is building
back better and said the anniversary commemoration
focused on being resilient and learning from the dis-
aster.
The anniversary is an opportunity to acknowledge
the success of the recovery effort so far, while recog-
nising that life for many of those worst-affected by
Winston is far from back to normal.
The HonourableKonrote said Fiji intends to do eve-
rything in its power to persuade the global commu-
nity to tackle the root cause of the extreme weather
events such as Winston that are causing so much pain
for our own people and the citizens of other vulner-
able nations around the world.
We must get the community of nations to continue
reducing the carbon emissions that are causing global
warming. This is a fight that we must win. Our entire
way of life is at stake. And that is why Fiji is taking a
leadership role in the world to persuade the industrial
nations to act decisively before it is too late.
We should preserve our pristine surroundings not
only for ourselves but the entire world and for fu-
ture generations. And of course continuing to wel-
come the world to Fiji to enjoy our hospitality and
the unique Fijian spirit.
Maika Kasami
Editor.
SIs proud achiever of the Medal of the Order of Fiji Suman Lata Lal (right) with her husband Dr Dhirend Lal and daughter Keshvi
Lal Sukul at the Government House after the Investiture ceremony. Photos: Supplied
Zareena Bi
Social service is all about devoting precious time to less for-
tunate in the society to make a difference and the recognition of
this specially through one of the highest awards in the country is a
humbling experience.
These were the sentiments shared by Mrs Suman Lal after re-
ceiving the Medal of the Order of Fiji award from the President
Major General (Retired) Jioji Konusi Konrote at the Investiture
Ceremony for the 2016 National Honours Roll.
According to Lal the award is very special as it is solely for her
service as a Soroptimist for more than 20 years and she is thankful
to the Almighty for giving her the strength and will to serve the
nation. She is currently an executive member of SI Sigatoka and
has previously served as President for SI Sigatoka, President for SI
Fiji and National Representative for SI Fiji and was nominated by
SI Lautoka for this award.
You can only serve if you have the heart for it and I am ex-
tremely thankful to my family and especially to my husband Doc-
tor Dhirend Lal and my two children for supporting me in my jour-
ney.
I am also grateful to the Soroptimist International Organization
for providing me with this platform as all the work I have done so
far may not have been possible without this platform and I cherish
the support of the SI members not only in Fiji but globally.
My journey is ongoing and I will continue serving my commu-
nity and country in future as well.
Meanwhile the 2016 Honours List included 76 individuals who
were recognized in the General Division of which 12 were recog-
nized for the Distinguished Service Award.
While officiating the Investiture Ceremony President Konrote
said that Fijians behind our national growth need acknowledge-
ment, both in the private and public sectors, in the urban and rural
communities.
I want to ensure that the Nation recognizes all the individuals
who give selflessly of their time and resources to help Fiji develop
at the community, national and international levels. Suman Lata Lal (Pictured) who has served her community as a
Our aim is to recognize and appreciate more Fijian citizens and member of SI Sigatoka and SI Fiji for more than 20 years in vari-
non-citizens who have contributed significantly to our nations de- ous executive positions to assist the less fortunate members of our
velopment, many who do so on the quiet, behind the scenes. society especially the girls and women, after being inducted in the
Fiji has granted national honours to about 613 individuals since 2016 National Honours Roll at the Government House.
the Honours and Awards Act was established in 1995.

PUBLISHER : SANJAY GOUNDAR : PH: 9960 129/ 8493 057 T/A : WESTERN MEDIA ENTERPRISES
EDITOR : MAIKA KASAMI : PH: 9189 779 EMAILS: citystarnews15@gmail.com / sanjayg@connect.com.fj
MARKETING MANAGER: ZAREENA Bi : PH: 9322 621 Follow us on facebook with daily updates : CitySTAR-Newspaper
OFFICE : 15 TUKANI STREET, LAUTOKA
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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 FIJI POLICE FORCE NEWS 07

Suicide is a concern: Police

FEBRUARY 25, 2017

Police West Media Cell

Suicide is a concern and this issue should be address to fam-

ily members and to all children.
This was one of the points highlighted to the students of
Lautoka Muslim College during their Prefect Induction cer-
emony on Friday (17th February,2017) by the Western Deputy
Divisional Police Commander (D/DPC/W) Superintendent of
Police (SP) Abdul Khan.
While elaborating on some of the leadership qualities to the
Lautoka Muslim College leaders of 2017, SP Abdul said the
reality of suicide was real and it was his duty to address the
issue to all the students and parents in attendance.
The suicide status provided by SP Abdul stated that so far
this year, 11 people had died from committing suicide and 17
had tried but was unsuccessful (attempted).
Just to add to the current figures, yesterday (February 16),
a 12 year student was found hanging in her bedroom. This is a
concern for the Fiji Police Force and we need your assistance
in the prevention of suicide, said SP Abdul.
The deputy Police Commander had encourage students to
come forward and liaise with their teachers if they have prob-
lems or if they see their college going through a rough patch
in their lives.
Come forward to us Police if you are facing problems and
we will see that we will help you out in any way we can. Re-
member that every problem has a solution, said SP Abdul.
The Students Prefects of Lautoka Muslim College were con-
gratulated on their appointments and SP Abdul said through
their leadership, he hopes to hear positive things about the Police Constable 5412 Manasa Tabuakula congratulates the 2017 Lautoka Muslim College head boy as Deputy Divisional
school and its students this year. Police Commander SP Abdul Khan looks on.

Lead by Example: DPC/W Lautoka Police Station Relocates

Being a leader comes with great re-
sponsibilities and you need to show com-
passion so that you earn the respect of
others.
The Jasper Williams Primary School
held their prefect induction on Friday
(03rd February, 2017) at the school with
the Western Divisional Police Command-
er (DPC/W) Senior Superintendent of
Police (SSP) Marika Kotoisuva as their
guest of honour.
With Leadership comes great respon-
sibilities, as the occasions theme, the
head of the Fiji Police Force in the West-
ern Division says that being a leader is
not an easy job since it comes with many
responsibilities.
Every day, I have to be humble, I have
to lead by example and most important of
all, I need God by my side to give me the
strength and wisdom I need, said SSP
Kotoisuva.
The Divisional Commander said as an
example, he had a very tight schedule but
he had shown compassion and had to find
time to induct the young ladies of Jasper
Primary School into leadership roles.
The young leaders were reminded that
their badges arent there for decorations
but it was a symbol of leadership.
SSP Kotoisuva acknowledged the
school management for inviting him to
officiate their prefect induction this year
saying he is always glad to take time out
from his schedule to talk to young leaders
of tomorrow.
Lautoka Police Station has started its opera-
tion from the Matanakilagi House at M.N. Naidu
Road from February 21 this year.
Members of the public can utilise all Police
Services from the new location which use to be
operated by the Fiji National Provident Fund
(FNPF) while the Market and Shirley Communi-
ty Post in the City will remain to receive reports.
Police presence within the Lautoka City area
will remain from the two community Post along
with the assistance from the Western Division
Headquarters located at Peekays Building along
Vitogo Parade.
The old Lautoka Police Station will undergo
the much needed renovation especially when
Cyclone Winston last year left behind extensive
damages.
Members of the public can contact Lautoka
Police Station through the same number on 6660
222 or on the official mobile on 9905 660.
Members of the public are also advised to
contact the Officer in Charge of Lautoka Policing
District (OCPD/Lautoka) Assistant Superinten-
dent of Police (ASP) Apete Rokoului on 9905218
or the Inspector of Operations (IPO/Ltk) Inspec-
tor of Police (IP) Samisoni Naqica on 9905 297.
Police Emergency Line 917 and Crime Stop-
pers 919 will still be available and this toll free
line will be operated by the Western Division
Command and Coordination Centre (WDCC)
based at the Divisional Headquarters.
WDCC can also be contacted on 666 2222 or
9905 457.

Western Police rescues two expecting mothers

Police in the Western Division rescued two
expecting women on Wednesday (08/02/17)
during the heavy downfall of TD09 just in
time for them to give birth.
In the morning Police in Lautoka had re-
sponded to a call on Crime stoppers (919)
from one Senibuli Tikomaimoala at Paipai
who urgently needed to get to hospital.
While trying to get her, Police had to swim
across the flooded waters and convey the
woman across to the waiting ambulance.
The woman gave birth within minutes of
their arrival.
Later in the evening another call was re-
ceived on Crimestoppers from one Sangita
Singh of Mataniwai, Tavua who was also ex-
pecting and has started to experience labor
pain.
This was a totally different situation com-
pared to the morning rescue in Lautoka.
The bridge which she was to cross had been
washed away by flood waters and the current
was too strong for anyone to swim across.
To make matters worse, it was dark.
The Tavua team had to sort the assistance
from members of the community in order to
get through to the stranded Ms Singh.
The headman of Korovou Village offered
his boat to the officers which was berth nearby
and officers had to carry the outboard engine
from his residence which was about three kilo-
metres away.
The Police rescue team on the boat was for-
tunate enough to be led by a Naval Sergeant
who also hails from Korovou Village.
The team managed to get through to Ms
Singh and conveyed her back to the waiting
Police vehicle on the main highway before be-
ing rushed to Hospital. Ms Singh was treated
at Tavua Hospital before she gave birth.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

08 INDIA REPUBLIC DAY SUPPLEMENT

Strong Fiji India relationship

FEBRUARY 25, 2017

Sanjay Goundar

Fiji and India has excellent relationship with very strong bonds
between the two countries.
Indian High Commissioner to Fiji Vishvas Sapkal gave this
assurance during the first ever Indian Republic Day celebra-
tion in the western division at Lautokas Girmit Centre on Feb-
ruary 4.
Mr Sapkal informed that the visit by Indian Prime Minister
Shri Narendra Modi to Fiji in November 2014 has a big impor-
tance to this relationship which saw the establishment of the
Forum for India Pacific Islands Cooperation (FIPIC).
First summit of FIPIC happened in Suva while the second
summit happened in Jaipur, India in August 2015 where the
Prime Minister of Fiji Rear Admiral (Retired) Frank Bainima-
rama visited India followed by another visit in May 2016.
Both Prime Ministers had very cordial and warm talks
amongst themselves on strengthening relationship further be-
tween the two countries.
When Tropical Cyclone Winston hit Fiji in 2016, India also
felt the pains of the Fijians during this period.
India immediately sent $3million worth relief assistance to
Fiji just after seventh days of the disaster.
We also gave $1million cash assistance towards the Prime
Ministers cyclone relief fund.
He informed that early this year the Government of India
have gave FJ$2.7 million for renovation of 20 schools severely
damaged by TC Winston last year.
Mr Sapkal added that India and Fiji also has excellent rela- Indian High Commissioner to Fiji Mr Vishvas Sapkal updating the local Fijian community about various assistance provided
tionship in terms of human resource development. by the Indian Government during the India Republic Day celebration in Lautoka. Photos: Sanjay Goundar
He revealed that every year almost 200 Fijians are sent to
India for various short term courses under the Indian Technical to fight climate change and phase one has seen training of 43 tural relationships as well which was evident with the Inter-
Cooperation program. solar mamas from seven Pacific Island countries. This US$1.5 national Ramayan conference in Fiji last year.
This courses ranges from two weeks period to nine months million project is for solar electrification of 2,800 houses in 14 During a special centenary celebration for the arrival of
period in almost 375 different times of courses. Pacific Island countries. In Fiji we will be having solar electri- Sullej 5 at University of the South Pacific campus in Suva in
Apart from that we also provide 30 long term scholarships fication of more than 200 houses. November last year we honoured 12 eminent Fijians who have
under the Indian Council for Cultural Relationship (ICCR) Fiji is acting as the hub of this solar electrification project as spent their lives in promoting Girmit values and cultures.
program. training of the solar mamas will be provided from here.
Since August 2016 we have started a very important course Mr Sapkal revealed that Fiji and India enjoy very strong cul

India- medical healing

hub of the world

Indian High Commissioner Mr Vishvas Sapkal with Punjas Group Founding Director Mr Kanti
Punja during the India Republic Day celebration

Sanjay Goundar 800,000 ayurvedic doctors.

The Republic of India has become the medical
healing hub of the whole world.
Indian High Commissioner to Fiji Vishvas
Sapkal made the revelation during the India Re-
public Day celebration in Lautoka on February
4.
Mr Sapkal revealed that as India celebrated its
68th Republic Day this year the country done
considerable progress in all sectors over the last
number of years.
He stressed the medical sector is one particular
area where India has captured the attention of
the entire universe.
He informed that India today has 1.2 million
doctors, almost 2 million nurses and around
We are the sixth largest country in production
of medicine so we are very strong in drug manu-
facturing.
Sapkal added that from a population of 360
million in 1981 India has now become a 1.3 bil-
lion population strong nation.
Along with the population growth we have
increased our per capita income, poverty has re-
duced to a great extent and we are now the sixth
most important country in the space sector.
In Information Technology India is consid-
ered as a giant by all parts of the world.
So India has done a lot of progress but at the
same time there are problems as well which we
are considering as a challenge as a developing
country, he stated.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

FEBRUARY 25, 2017 INDIA REPUBLIC DAY SUPPLEMENT 09
Message from Mr Y.P.REDDY, Chairman Fiji Girmit Council at the
India Republic Day Celebration
Namaskaram! And Good Afternoon to you all.

On behalf of the Fiji Girmit Council, Members of the Board

and staff, I wish to extend a very warm welcome to all of you
for joining us to mark this historic day in the Indian calendar,
the Indian Republic Day.
I am equally privileged to formally welcome the Indian High
Commissioner, His Excellency Vishvas Sapkal to the Fiji Gir-
mit Centre Premises.
We have indeed gathered here today to mark a very special
day in the calendar of the Republic of India. It gives me and
my board members great joy and pleasure to join the Indian
High Commission in Fiji and the invited guests in celebrating
the India Republic Day at the Fiji Girmit Center. As descend-
ants of girmityas, we harbor a strong and inseparable bondage
with India, a country which we still regard as our motherland.
We all treasure a special place in our hearts for India.

Fiji is a little India in the South Pacific. Its Indo-Fijian popu-

lation has inherited Indian languages, food, music, dance and
songs from India and strongly embrace it to maintain its re-
ligion, culture and identity. Indian movies continue to be the
greatest influence on our younger generations today. It has be-
come popular with the ethnic Fijian population as well.

Fijians frequently visit India to visit relatives, for holidays,

visit holy places, for medical treatments and for business, thus
continue to nurture their bond with India.
The Fiji Girmit Center is symbolic of the strong ties and
friendship that exist between India and Fiji. It was a historic
occasion in 1981 when the former Prime Minister of India,
Late Mrs. Indira Gandhi officiated at the inauguration of the
Girmit Center construction, which was co-funded by the Gov-
ernment and people of India. As such we could not have found
a better place to host the celebrations.
As we celebrate the India Republic Day today, it is only ap-
propriate for us to take this opportunity to salute all the fallen
heroes and freedom fighters and to pay tribute for their tremen-
dous sacrifice and bravery in their pursuit to liberate In
Fiji Girmit Council Chairman Mr Y P Reddy (left) with Indian High Commissioner to Fiji Mr Vishvas Sapkal at the India Re-
public Day celebration at Girmit Centre in Lautoka. Photos: Sanjay Goundar
dia from the clutches of the British Colonial rule. A free India
meant freedom to Indians in India and in the colonies believed is temporarily closed. It is mainly because of this industry
Mahatma Gandhi. that Indians have migrated to Fiji. Against the backdrop of this
Your Excellency, as you would agree the name Girmitiya is connection it may be ideal for the High Commission to recon-
synonymous with the sugar industry in Fiji which was once the sider setting up a cultural Centre and office in the west for bet-
back bone of our economy. Historical records show that some ter delivery of your service to the people of Fiji. As chairman
sixty thousand five hundred and fifty three (60,553) indentured of the Fiji Girmit Council let me assure you that we are happy
labourers were brought from India to work in the sugarcane to accommodate your office at our Center Premises. I remain
plantations and most of them had settled in the western prov- optimistic that you will give due consideration to our offer.
ince which has now become the main cane belt areas. Cur- I wish your Prime Minister and the people of India the very
rently the two sugar mills are based in the west and another one best in 2017.

Fiji Girmit Council cultural centres music teacher Master Naresh Chand (right) performs during
the India Republic Day celebrations at Girmit Centre

Clyde Equipment General Manager Praful Dhokai (left), Reddy Group Director Finance G Naidu
and FGC Chairman & Reddy Group Chairman Y P Reddy (right) with Indian High Commissioner
to Fiji Mr Vishvas Sapkal (2nd from right) during the India Republic Day function.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

10
Zareena Bi
Leaders need praise and encouragement
Praise and encouragement
are vital for leaders when
they do their duties well de-
spite difficulties and chal-
lenges.
Speaking at leadership in-
duction program at Jasper
Williams High school on
February 20, the chief guest
National Coordinator of Oc-
cupational Health (OHS) and
Safety and First aid for the
Ministry of Education Mr
Veer Chand reminded parents
and teachers on the impor-
tance of guiding the school
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For all your office & school stationery requirement stockiest of books & computer consumables
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leaders.
To you our parents and
teachers, these are leaders of
our school but still children at
home.
They still need our guid-
ance and support which you
must continue to provide for
them through this training in
leadership period.
More importantly as
adults you need to listen to
them and give them a chance
to show their leadership abil-
ity.
Chand advised the prefects
that this training is preparing
them to be future leaders in
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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
NEWS FEBRUARY 25, 2017
government or in the private
sector.
He added that the leaders
should learn as much as pos-
sible from their trainers, who
are their teachers, parents and
other elders in the commu-
nity.
The Chief Guest also
stressed on the aspect of qual-
ities required for good leader-
ship like being fair, humble,
honest, being a role model,
having good communication
skills, confidence, a positive
attitude, patience and being
creative.
As a leader you must be
The Head Prefects of Jasper Williams High School (Back Row) after
their induction ceremony
creative and think of many ways to brighten the day is not bad as
to do something or solve a prob- long as we do not overdo it.
lem. Chand provided motivation to
This will give choices to your the prefects by advocating that
friends from which they can make they should always remember that
the best decisions. there is no mountain that cannot
Also, as a leader you can be be climbed and likewise no prob-
firm but friendly at the same time. lem without a solution.
A sense of humour now and again
Temple gears up for Maha Kumbabishekam
Products
Magnetic White Board
(In assorted sizes)
From
$6.95
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Celco Wood Puzzles
A South Indian devotee has sharp needles pierced all over his body
(For Beginners / Assorted Designs) during the pooja at Nadi Temple this year. Photos: Sanjay Goundar
Zareena Bi are gearing up for the more than 10,000
major event which - 20,0000 devotees
The year 2018 will will see key renova- to come across and
be a significant year tions at the temple. pray for this one
for the Shri Siva He added that the in- week event but eve-
Subramaniam Tem- vestment is expected ry day we expect at
ple in Nadi as it will to cost around 4.5 least 3,000 people to
be completing its million which will re- come to the temple
twelfth (12th) year sult in a new catering and on the last day
Liquitex Acrylic Colour Paints of establishment cul- area, a hall, pujaris we expect more than
minating in the Maha quarters, seven shops 10,000 people.
Kumbabishekam. and offices. We have a lot of
During this years Speaking about this devotees now in Fiji
From annual Thaipussam years Thaipussam who celebrate this
prayers in early Feb-
ruary at the temple
pooja the President
shared that this falls
event and I must
thank the executive
Then India Sanmarg every year in the board, the chair-
Ikya (TISI) Sangam month of January and man and the priests
National President February and it is for their support. It
Sada Sivan Naicker the biggest festival in is great on their part
informed that all the the calendar for the which is making this
temple stakeholders Temple. We expect festival a success.
FEBRUARY 25, 2017 ADVERTISEMENT 11

LAUTOKA CAMPUS LAUTOKA CAMPUS

USP- CISCO NETWORK ACADEMY

CAREGIVING FUNDAMENTALS 2017 CCNA Course-Delivery starts in early March
Good News for Ba & Tavua Residents Apply Now and Secure Your Place!
There is only one intake per year: Be Smart; Make prompt Start
Caregiving Fundamentals Course is scheduled for Ba on Public Demand. REGISTER CCNA Routing and Switching V5 focuses on network infrastructure, mainly Routing and Switching,
NOW!! Prospective students from Ba and Tavua are encouraged to take advantage. but it also includes Wireless access, Security and Connectivity to branch offices using WAN.
Evening class starts on 27 February and Day class will start in March 2017. Students progress from Basic networking to more complex enterprise and theoretical networking
models later in the curriculum.
If you are interested in Caregiving as a Homecare Worker, or as a Family Caregiver for Target Group: This specialised training is suitable for fulfilling the career aspirations of those either
your loved ones, or pursuing a career in Caregiving, then this course is for you. The employed or seeking a career in networking in a competitive environment during this era of rapid
Course consists of 110 hours of classroom theory, skills and demonstrations and First technological advancement.
Aid/CPR training together with 40 hours of practical with an approved client. This course
provides you with necessary skills required in Caregiving. Module Key Concepts Start Date End Date Weeks
CCNA-1 TCP/IP Suite, Application Layer, March May 10
Successful students will be awarded a Certificate of Completion and First Aid/CPR Introduction to Transport Layer, Internet Layer, Network
Certificate from Fiji Red Cross Society. Networks Access Layer
CCNA-2 Swtich Network Device, Switch Network May July 10
Delivery Details Routing & Configs, Routing Protocols (OSPF),
Switching Configuration (IPV4 & IPV6)
Venue Day Class Evening Class
CCNA-3 LAN Redundancy, Ether channel, July September 10
Scaling Advance OSPF/EIGRP, (IPV4 & IPV6),
USP Lautoka Campus 20 February - Mid April 20 February - Mid April Networks Trouble Shooting
Ba March 2017. Date will be 27/2/17- 21/4/17 CCNA-4 Hierarchical Network Design, October December 10
confirmed later Connecting Connecting to the WAN,
Networks Point-to-Point Connections,
Frame Relay, Network Address
Fees: $900 (Cash, installments, Cheque or can be assisted by FNPF) Translation for IPV4,
Broadband Solutions
Minimum admission requirements: Must be 18 years and over; at least FJC pass
or mature applicant with good command of spoken and written English. Submit your Venue: USP Lautoka Campus- Saturdays from 9am to 4pm and two evenings per week
application with a copy of birth certificate and two (2) passport photos. 5pm-8pm. Fees: $900 per module
To obtain enrolment form and for further information, contact: Rajendra Placement: Only 20 places are available for each cohort so it will be offered on first come-first
served basis.
Singh, tel: 6666800; fax: 6667133; email: rajendra.singh@usp.ac.fj or Babita Sharma,
To obtain enrolment form and for further information, contact: Rajendra Singh,
email: babita.sharma@usp.ac.fj or enquire at the USP Lautoka Campus, Western
tel: 666 6800; fax: 6667133 or email: rajendra.singh@usp.ac.fj or Babita Sharma;
House, corner of Vidilo Street, Lautoka or visit our website: www.usp.ac.fj/lautoka email: Babita.Sharma@usp.ac.fj or enquire at the USP Lautoka Campus, Western House,
corner of Vidilo Street, Lautoka.

TOWARDS EXCELLENCE IN LEARNING AND KNOWLEDGE CREATION TOWARDS EXCELLENCE IN LEARNING AND KNOWLEDGE CREATION

LAUTOKA CAMPUS LAUTOKA CAMPUS

EXPRESSION OF INTEREST CERTIFICATE IV IN WORKPLACE

OHS MODULES 1-4 TRAINING LEADERSHIP TRAINING
Do you want to be a highly effective leader? Do you want to develop the self-confidence, vision, wisdom,
Acquire knowledge and skills in identifying hazards, assessing and controlling risk and in contributing motivational impact and delivery skills that the most effective leaders have? And do you want to be the
to occupational health and safety management in your organisation. It is mandatory in Fiji under person to whom, quite naturally, other people turn for direction?
Legal Notice 169 section 7(1) that OHS special training should be provided to Health & Safety
representatives and committee members in every work place. Safety at work is everyones concern. This Course Helps You Become an Exceptional Leader
Outcomes
Learning outcomes Understand and apply a framework of Create a persona; agenda for self-improvement
At the successful completion of the training participants will be able to: Workplace Leadership to guide your personal and set goals to productivity throughout the
1. Explain the roles & functions of OHS workplace hazards & assess their risk development, as well as the development of organisation
representatives and the committee. factors. your teams and organisation Acquire new tools and technique and able to
2. Demonstrate the use of workplace 4. Apply OHS technology & communication Determine how to enhance learning process in foster innovation.
arrangements to resolve workplace health skills order to meet day to day operation Develop capacity building and skills transfer
& safety issues. 5. Identify the relevant OHS regulations &
3. Describe methods used to identify codes of practice Component 1- Staff Welfare Component 2 Human Component 3 Leadership &
& Safety Resource Management Skills Management Skills
Training content Understanding Diversity at Work Change Management Skills Coaching: A leadership Skills
1. HS Act 1996 application 7. SMART audit
Workplace Ethics Conducting Effective Professional Supervisor
2. Workplace arrangements 8. Accident investigation & reporting Performance Review
3. Establishment of OHS reps & committees 9. Hazard identification & risk assessment &
4. Functions of the OHS committee controls Safety at the Workplace Performance Management Team Building Initiatives in the workplace
5. Managing OHS The 6 steps approach 10. Hazardous substances Dealing with Workplace HR Training for Non HR Motivating your workforce
6. Current OHS regulations Harassment Managers
Target Group Dealing with Workplace Violence New Staff Orientation Employee dispute resolution
This training is open for all interested individuals. It is also available for in-house training delivery. Fijis Employment Relations Bill to be studied also.
Cross Credit of Leadership & Management Module from Certificate II in Professional Development
Training will also be delivered in other districts of the Western Division on demand. Interested
Programme
persons are requested to liaise with your networks and collect expressions of interest. You can then
contact the undersigned for scheduling of training and other logistics. Target Group: Emerging, aspiring and current workplace Leaders.
Delivery Details
Dates, Days & Time Applications Due Date Venue Fee Venue Dates Time Application closing dates
Evening Class- March 20, 2017 USP Lautoka Campus $320 pp Lautoka- USP Lautoka Campus To be confirmed once 5.00 pm March 20, 2017
Two Evenings per week (Two Evenings per week) sufficient number of 8.00pm
5.00pm - 8.00pm applications are received
Ba & Sigatoka 9.00-3.00/ March 20, 2017
(Saturdays/Evening options) 5-8pm
Class will be scheduled once sufficient number of applications is received.
Fees: $450 per component & $1350 for whole programme. Payment: Cash, Cheque, Installments and FNPF.
To obtain enrolment form and for further information, contact: Rajendra Singh, To obtain enrolment form and for further information, contact: Rajendra Singh, tel: 666 6800;
tel: 666 6800; fax: 6667133; email: rajendra.singh@usp.ac.fj or Babita Sharma, email: fax: 6667133; email: rajendra.singh@usp.ac.fj or Babita Sharma Email: babita.sharma@usp.ac.fj or enquire at
babita.sharma@usp.ac.fj or enquire at the USP Lautoka Campus, Western House, corner of the USP Lautoka Campus, Western House, corner of Vidilo Street, Lautoka or visit our website:
Vidilo Street, Lautoka or visit our website: www.usp.ac.fj/lautoka www.usp.ac.fj/lautoka

TOWARDS EXCELLENCE IN LEARNING AND KNOWLEDGE CREATION TOWARDS EXCELLENCE IN LEARNING AND KNOWLEDGE CREATION

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

12 FEATURE FEBRUARY 25, 2017

Training Prefects for effective leadership in Fiji Schools

Ravinesh Prasad
Lecturer in Education
School of Education
College of Humanities and
Education
Fiji National University
prasadravinesh234@gmail.com

For schools in Fiji to perform well, there must be evidence

of good leadership. In educational institutions, leadership has
been devolved to encompass class teachers, teachers on duty,
non-teaching staff and above all, prefects. Schools are expect-
ed to be places where growth and development of the individ-
ual occurs. This makes schools the major agents entrusted with
change. Leadership means to control or direct functions of a
given institution, organization or a group. A leader is therefore
a person who has the ability and personality to influence the
action of others to ensure that his followers subscribe to the
requirements of the institution, organization or group. A pre-
fect is a student with leadership qualities either selected by the
school authority or elected by students and given certain pow-
ers to control and guide other students.
Role of prefects in school leadership
Prefects play a very important role in the control of the stu-
dents and management of schools. They carry out the imple-
mentation of instructions from the administration and teachers.
In most schools in Fiji, prefects play an important role in the
organization and discipline of the school both inside and out-
side the classroom. In good performing schools, prefects are Head prefects of Lautoka School for Special Education with the chief guest and their teachers after the induction ceremony.
also efficient and effective so that the role of teachers is limited Photos: Sanjay Goundar
to teaching and carrying out other academic duties. They are
making should be made wisely. While making decisions that
managers who are adequately trained to carry out their duties
affect other students, prefects should not be emotional or angry this happens indiscipline sets in. To Sum-up, I would say that
and responsibilities. Prefects provide the link between the ad-
but rather be sober with an open mind for a prefect to be acceptable, the school leadership must fa-
ministration and students. Among indiscipline students, pre-
cilitate his/her leadership through training, provision of a pre-
fects are enemies but to the disciplined and focused ones,
Dealing with conflict fect handbook, schools commitment to students welfare and
they are people who sacrifice their time to serve others without
Conflict is the struggle between incompatible or opposing proper delegation. Once prefects are appointed by the school
expecting a reward.
needs, wishes, ideas, interests or people. Conflict may degen- authority or elected by the students, prefects should undergo
Appointment of prefects
erate into a fight, a struggle or a shouting match. As far as Fiji is an initial induction course to familiarize them with their roles
Prefects are student leaders in the school. They work as a
concern, conflict arises on daily basis in schools and society at and limitations. Schools either in cluster or division should
body system with some junior and senior prefects performing
large. The conflict may be between two students or two groups organize seminars for them. Head prefects and other prefects
various duties. A Head Teacher should ensure there is a func-
of students. It may also be between a prefect and a student, a might encounter problems like harassment and opposition
tional prefects system, which acts as a link between the school
prefect and a prefect, a prefect and group of students or even from students, inadequate time for study, conflict of interest,
and administration and the students.
among three or more groups of students. Prefects need to know inadequate communication skills, inability to supervise duties,
Training prefects for effective leadership
how to handle these conflicts, the method they use depending lack of support from teachers and compromise with friends.
On appointment, I strongly feel that prefects should make
on various factors such as the seriousness of the conflict, how Prefects being students will need help from the teachers to
an effort to acquire and develop skills, which are necessary if
willing the groups involved are to talk to each other, the ur- tackle their challenges at the same time study. Counselors and
they are going to be efficient in carrying out their duties. Stu-
gency of the situation and the level of leadership hierarchy to psychologists can take prefects to an exclusive venue where
dents can learn effective leadership qualities just like adults.
which the groups involved belong. These are some of the areas they can be trained. Possible topics include qualities of good
Also, there is a great need to train prefects and equip them
that prefects need to be trained in. leadership, balancing between their studies and academic work
with skills to manage themselves, fellow students time, school
Besides training, prefects require motivation to perform ef- and dealing with crisis, including bullying and fighting. Also,
duties and their studies. When responsibilities are delegated to
fectively. Most importantly, I feel that prefects assist the school teachers should conduct internal training and counseling pro-
them without proper guidance, they get confused, stressed, and
administration and teachers to control students and run the grams for their own prefects.
more often than not, demoralized.
school therefore, they require encouragement and motivation A leader is therefore a person who has the ability and per-
Training needs of prefects
to boost their morale and put in their best. A motivated pre- sonality to influence the action of others to ensure that his fol-
Each prefect requires developing skills in planning, organiz-
fects body has an attachment and goodwill to the institution. lowers subscribe to the requirements of the institution, organi-
ing, directing, co-ordinating and controlling. To accommodate
The opposite will mean that the standards will fall and when zation or group.
such qualities and skills prefects needs to be drilled with such
skills as stated below:
Time management
Prefects are first and foremost students; they need to pursue
their academic goals just like other students. At the same time,
they are expected to lead others combining these rules can be
difficult without proper planning to strike a balance between
duties and class work. I feel that it is advisable for all prefects
to ensure that things are running well in their specific areas of
responsibility so that most of the time is devoted to academic
work.

Communicating
According to Nzuve (1999) communication is the process
by which information is intentionally or unintentionally passed
across. Communication from prefects to other students is in-
tended to inform and persuade them in order to produce re-
sults. Everyday prefects pass across important information
from the administration to the students through various forums
such as assemblies, class, club, welfare and house meetings.
This Information needs to be communicated properly. Inability
to disseminate information correctly may cause misinforma-
tion, confusion and frustration, which may lead to poor im-
plementation of instruction. Therefore it is recommended that
before making important statements, prefects should organise
information in a systematic way. They need to use proper lan-
guage and speak fluently, simply and clearly.

Decision Making Newly inducted prefects of Lautoka Arya Samaj Primary School with their teachers and invited guests
The prefects may make decisions alone or by the prefects
with some or all the students or teachers. Effective decision
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
FEBRUARY 25, 2017
Support your leaders
Zareena Bi
Leaders or school prefects who are chosen
to lead for the year need the cooperation and
support of the whole school to make their
leadership journey successful.
Speaking at the prefect induction program
at Lautoka Zhong Hua Primary Education Of-
ficer Lautoka, Nadi, Yasawa Mrs Miliakere
Moroca Varani encouraged students to be a
friend to their leaders and not to criticize them.
She added that the prefects have been cho-
sen by the teachers and their role will not be
easy if they do not have the support of the
whole school.
The Education Officer reminded the prefects
that they are the selected ones chosen to be the
hands, ears and eyes of their teachers and to
speak on their behalf as well so they need to
acquire the essential qualities of a leader.
You need to be fair and humble and a role
model to lead by example. You must follow
the school rules first then you can expect eve-
rybody else to follow you.
Newly inducted prefects of Lautoka Andhra Sangam Primary School with their teachers
Head prefects of Lautoka Arya Samaj Primary School celebrate their induction with the cake Head Prefects of Shri Ram Govind Memorial School with their teachers after being inducted
MEGA NET
cutting ceremony. Photo: Sanjay Goundar
NEWS 13
You must be the first for duties, in
the classroom, to the sports field and
everywhere, then only will the rest fol-
low you.
Remember your action speaks
louder than words and you cannot tell
other students to do something when
you yourself are not doing it.
She also stressed the need for effec-
tive communication with peers, speak-
ing with confidence and having a posi-
tive attitude.
You must stay positive in every-
thing you do no matter how big or
small the task .
Your friends will look up to you so
you must encourage them to stay posi-
tive and not be discouraged when the
going gets tough.
You are bound to get angry and an-
noyed when things are not done the
way you want it and this is where pa-
Education Officer Lautoka/ Yasawa/ Nadi Miliakere Varani with the prefects and teachers of Lautoka
tience, tolerance and understanding is
Zhong Hua Primary School. Photo: Sanjay Goundar
needed.
Head Prefects of Lovu Sangam Primary School with teachers and invited guests
for the 2017 school year.
71 Vitogo Parade, Lautoka (Opposite Fiji Development Bank)
Open 7 days a week from 8.00 am - 10.00 pm
(Including Public Holidays)
Services Provided: Internet, PC Games, Printing, Photocopying,
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Email: mega.netcafe@yahoo.com Contact: (679) 6640505
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
14 NEWS FEBRUARY 25, 2017

First Lady Vested As Patron Of Fiji Girl Guides

Source: MINFO

Her Excellency the First Lady, Sarote Kon-

rote, has urged girls and young women across
the country to join the Girl Guides Associa-
tion and aspire to be leaders in our schools and
our communities.
She made the comments as she was vested
as the Patron of the Fiji Girl Guides Associa-
tion at the State House today.
First Lady Konrote said the Girl Guides is
a noble movement because it provides a plat-
form for young women to develop their skills,
capabilities and talents.
It is indeed a privilege to become the Pa-
tron of such a big voluntary character build-
ing association. I look forward to assisting
the Fiji Girl Guides Association fulfil your
mission in enabling girls and young women
develop into their fullest potentials and being
responsive to their needs and the needs of oth-
ers, First Lady Konrote said.
The Fiji Girl Guides Association promotes
a holistic approach dealing with the intellect,
the spiritual, the physical, the emotion, social
and moral development.
The First Lady has also appealed to the min-
istries of Education, Youth and Sports and the
Ministry of Women to support the promotion
of the Girl Guides movement in the schools
and communities. First Lady Sarote Konrote with members of the Fiji Girl Guides Association after being appointed the Patron of the Guide movement in Fiji.
There are close to 4850 members in the Fiji Photo: MINFO
Girl Guides Association.

FIJI PARTICIPATES AT INTERNATIONAL FUND FOR AGRICULTURAL DEVELOPMENT MEET

Source: MINFO
Fiji in early February participated at the 40th Governing
Council of the International Fund for Agricultural Develop-
ment (IFAD) a specialised international agency of the United
Nations to work with developing countries to eliminate pov-
erty, hunger and malnutrition.
Fijis Assistant Minister for Agriculture Viam Pillay led
Fijis delegation to the meeting in Rome, which focused on
agriculture as a catalyst to reduce poverty and hunger in devel-
oping countries.
The outgoing President of IFAD, Kanayo F. Nawanze, in his
final address to the Governing Council informed that IFAD has
made agriculture as the central focus for Governments to re-
duce poverty and hunger and that investment in rural sector is
not a choice but a necessity. He went on to outline the develop-
ments and institutional reforms within IFAD, which led to the
decentralisation of IFADs operations to regions and bringing
the services closer to people living in rural communities.
Mr Pillay took the opportunity to hold a bilateral meeting at
the margins of the meeting with Ms Hoonae Kim, IFADs di-
rector of Asia and the Pacific Region to discuss issues directly
relating to Fiji. This included progress on the uptake of the Fiji
Agricultural Partnership Project of 3.5 million Euros. IFAD
outlined its plans to appoint a regional coordinator for the Pa-
cific Island states to be based in Jakarta. In this regard it was
noted that it would help if the incumbent be from the Pacific
region to ensure proper representation.
The meeting discussed Fijis presidency for COP 23 and
areas where IFAD could assist Fijis presidency. IFAD wel-
comed Fijis presidency and offered full support for advancing
climate agenda.. It further informed that IFAD has been ac-
credited to Green Climate Fund and looked forward utilizing
the fund for needy projects for the rural sector.
Pillay was supported by Fijis Permanent Representative to
IFAD, Ambassador Deo Saran.

BK staff sharpens their skills

Being part of an international
franchise requires a lot of hard work
and staff training is an essential part
of the entire business experience.
A well trained workforce will en-
sure the best customer service and
this will result in repeat business
and everlasting positive impression
on our customers as well, Burger
King general manager Akash Nar-
sey explains.
While nobody is perfect and it is
universally accepted that one can-
not please every customer, as an
international franchise, Burger King
continuously invests in training its
staff members to stay on top of the
game, Mr Narsey added.
Referring to a recent training and
upskilling session for 48 staff mem-
bers that was conducted in Nadi by
Ranju Kumar of Smart Train, Nar-
sey says staff members were really
impressed with the outcome as posi-
tive results were already being seen
in their two outlets in Nadi.
BK employees are enthusias-
tic, committed and have a positive
mind-set to new knowledge and
training them is always a rewarding
experience, Smart Train proprietor
and consultant Ranju Kumar who
possesses vast knowledge in human
resources and training fields told
INBOX, the monthly newsletter of
Motibhai Group.
This particular training has
geared up BK staff with exceptional
customer service skills during the
peak festive season to ensure their
customers have a complete buyer
experience in both outlets, Ms Ku-
mar added.
Key learning outcomes were to
see that the staff deliver that supe-
rior service with a smile and make
customers enjoy the BK factor.
Listening skills, overall com-
munication skills, maintaining BK
standards, first impressions, and
professional etiquette were some of
the objectives of this training ses-
sion.
She commended BK general
manager Akash Narsey for being so
passionate about customer service
standards.
Narsey initiated these two ses-
sions of customer service training
and engaged Smart Train for this
project. He is keen to invest more
in his teams learning and develop-
ment in future as well, Ms Kumar Burger King employees during their recent training programme to enhance their customer service skills.
said. Photo: Supplied
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 SPORTS 15

Vakatalesau eyes Blues jumper

FEBRUARY 25, 2017

Maika Kasami
PROLIFIC goal scorer Osea Vakatalesau
has shown interest in rejoining Lautoka for
the 2017 soccer season.
Vakatalesau is making a return to local foot-
ball after after being sidelined for nearly a
year because of injury.
The former Hekari striker who is based in
Ba was earlier thought to be contemplating a
return to the Men in Black camp.
But reports from neighbouring district Lau-
toka suggests they are interested in securing
his services to further boost the already for-
midable squad.
According to LFA president Abdul Kadar
they did receive a lot of interest from players
wanting to play for Lautoka during the Febru-
ary transfer window which was for two-weeks
ending on the 14th.
But they chose not to bring in any as they
already have a full squad comprising of play-
ers who could play in more than one position.
Maybe except for one man nicknamed
Ozzy.
We feel that we have a good team in our
hands that is capable of challenging titles and
winning matches, said Kadar.
We have decided not to bring players dur-
ing this transfer window maybe except for
Osea who we have applied for his release
from Ba.
He is a former player who has a proven
track record and we are waiting for his official
release which may take time because of some
issues.
Lautoka have three points from its 2-0 win
over Labasa in Week 1. Its match against
Dreketi was called off due to bad weather.
The Sugar City side have eleven players (in-
cluding Osea) in camp with the national team
preparing for the FIFA Oceania World Cup
qualifier against the New Zealand All Whites
at the end of March.
Lautoka, which won the Inkk Mobile Bat-
tle of the Giants title last year after a lapse of
31-years has been earmarked to host the 2017
Courts IDC at the new look Churchill Park in
October.

Floyd Mayweather vs. Conor McGregor- Billion Dollar fight

Gareth A Davies, BOXING the pair are keen.
CORRESPONDENT (The Most likely the fight between me
and Conor McGregor will happen,
Telegraph)
Mayweather said live on American
television while attending the Carl
FLOYD Mayweather and Conor
Frampton-Leo Santa Cruz WBA
McGregors cross-code boxing ver-
featherweight title fight at the MGM
sus mixed martial arts showdown
Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
moved a step closer after both men
Thats the only fight that will get
talked up the prospect. However the
me back in the ring. Hes going to
contest, likely to take place in Las
do a job on his side and we are going
Vegas, will need to be sanctioned by
to do a job on my side and hopefully
the chairman and commissioners of
all the fans in the UK come over and
the Nevada State Athletic Commis-
support me.
sion, Telegraph Sport was told on
Mayweather revealed the weight
Sunday night.
for the contest would be between
Five-weight boxing world cham-
145lb and 150lb and added: I
pion Mayweather, 39, retired in
dont know [when it will be]. I need
September 2015 with an unbeaten
to communicate with my team, the
49-fight record, having fought
fight hasnt been made yet, but it is
Manny Pacquiao in May 2015 in
all about entertainment so hopefully
the richest fight in history, which
we can make it happen.
grossed $700million. But talk of a
McGregor said: I believe this is
boxing match with UFC lightweight
the first billion dollar fight. I think it
champion McGregor has persisted,
will happen at the end of this year or Floyd Mayweather (left) and Conor McGregors fight if it does eventuate will be a Billion Dollar fight.
with it been called the billion dol-
the start of next year. Photos: Supplied.
lar fight.
Bob Bennett, executive director
McGregor recently obtained a different sports with two different youre speaking about the elite of commissioners to sanction, but
of the Nevada State Athletic Com-
boxing licence in California and, in skill sets. There have been on low- the elite in an MMA world and pro- I do think that would be very con-
mission, told The Daily Telegraph:
his own irascible way, the 28-year- level boxing cards MMA fighters fessional boxing world youre talk- troversial. They are two different
I would say the sport McGregor is
old Irishman has been calling the that have a limited MMA career and ing about two different sports. That sports.
in, mixed martial arts, and the box-
American out. Despite reservations transformed into boxers. But when would be up to the chairmen and the
ing that Mayweather does are two
about the legitimacy of such a fight,

Khan wants a crack at Pacquiao

Report: The Guardian
REPORTS that Amir Khan has
landed the ultimate fight of his ca-
reer against Manny Pacquiao on 20
May met with predictable derision
from the Filipinos promoter, Bob
Arum, on Tuesday, who called them
total and complete bullshit. Which
is not to say it will not happen.
The Amir Khan story has come
out of nowhere, Arum told the Cou-
rier Mail in Brisbane, home town of
the boxer and former schoolteacher,
Jeff Horn, who has signed a contract
to fight Pacquiao on 23 April.
However Mike Koncz, Pacquiaos
legal advisor, said Id prefer not to
make any comments right now be-
cause there are a lot of undecided
issues. Hopefully by mid-week next
week well have a final on every-
thing.
Tony Bellew hates training but
banks on it reaping rewards against
David Haye
All Im going to do is fuel spec-
ulation in the media and I dont want
to do that. Once we have confirmed
100% the venue and the arena and
who the opponent is well make
an announcement. But, until then,
I think its detrimental to all nego-
tiations taking place and its not fair
to the candidates we are looking to
fight.
Khan is expected to announce
his next opponent in the next 10
days for an April fight in the United
States, and it is highly unlikely to be
Pacquiao, who has tax issues there.
A good showing in that fight
would set down a marker for Khan
to meet the winner of the 4 March
bout between Keith Thurman and
Danny Garcia especially if the lat-
ter wins, as it was the Philadelphian
who ripped the light-welterweight
title away from Khan in 2012 before
they both moved up a division. Ed-
die Hearn, hugely frustrated when
Khan turned down Kell Brook, de-
scribed as incorrect the latest ru-
mours of a Khan-Pacquiao fight.
Arum, who has been with Pac-
quiao almost since his arrival at
Freddie Roachs Wild Card gym in
Los Angeles in 2001, admitted final
details of the Horn fight, originally
scheduled for the Suncorp Stadium
in Brisbane, were up in the air, Bob Arum, Manny Pacquiaos promoter, says his fighter will not take on Amir Khan but the boxers lawyer has
and said his fighter was looking for hinted otherwise
bigger money in the United Arab
Emirates.
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
16 SPORTS FEBRUARY 25, 2017

Waqa leads VPL scoring chart

Maika Kasami

LANKY young Ba striker Saula Waqa was

at his best in Week 1 of the Vodafone Premier
League scoring twice in the 2-1 win over Suva
at the ANZ Stadium.
The first of his goal, a side flick past the
Suva goalkeeper was a gem to watch which
goes to show his maturity at such an early age.
Ravinesh Karan Singh had opened the scor-
ing after some misunderstanding in the Ba
defence, but the Men in Black regrouped to
score two goals.
With three points in the bag, the Imdaad Ali
coached side can now focus on their Oceania
Champions League campaign.
The side left the country for New Caledonia
via New Zealand on February 21 for their O-
League matches. The O-League kicks off on
February 26 to March 6.
Meanwhile, Lautoka looks to be on course
this year to scoop the VPL title.
The 2-0 win over Labasa at Subrail Park
was a clear signal of their intention this sea-
son.
Laced with top players like Valerio Nawatu,
Iliesa Lino, Mohd Shazil, Ilaitia Tuilau, Dave
Radrigai, Kolinio Sivoki and Samuela Drud-
ru, the side is on a mission to lay their claim
along with the top sides.
The Sugar City side was unfortunate last National and Lautoka soccer rep Ilaitia Tuilau in action against Suva during a friendly match at the Fiji Football Academy in Vatuwaqa, Suva.
year when they missed out on an O-League Photo: Anushil Kumar/VODAFONE.
spot, losing crucial points against minnows
Nadroga. In other Week 1 results, Nadi, the 2015 Its a baptism of fire for Rakiraki as they Lautoka (postponed), Suva 1-2 Ba, Rewa
Now with the official announcement of Ab- League champions went down to Rewa 0-2. make their entry into the Premier grade and 2-0 Nadi.
dul Kadar as the LFA president, the Blues look With successful president Navneeda Goundar the first up meeting against a team who are in Goal scorers as at February 24:
serious and are leaving no stones unturned in opting to step down and the departure of key peak form for the O-League is cruel. 2-goals: Saula Waqa (Ba).
their preparation to bring back lost glory to the players like Vuniuci Tikomaimereke, An- Rewa are in fine form and the westerners 1-goal: Iosefo Verevou (Rewa), Savenaca
district. ish Khem and rumors of William Valentine, who have already suffered a lot during the Nakalevu (Rewa), Ravinesh Karan Singh
After winning the Inkk Mobile Battle of the Napolioni Qasevakatini opting to follow suit recent heavy rain and flooding have another (Suva), Dave Radrigai (Lautoka), Samuela
Giants after a lapse of 31-years, they are de- in the transfer window, things are looking mountain to climb. Drudru (Lautoka).
termined to win more titles. tough for the Jetsetters with a visit to Suva Results:
up next. Week 1 Labasa 0-2 Lautoka, Dreketi v

FIJI TO HOST NETBALL WORLD YOUTH CUP IN 2021

NETBALL Fiji has won
the rights to host the second
staging of the Netball World
Youth Cup in 2021.
This was announced by the
International Netball Federa-
tion this week and will see the
tournament being held at the
Vodafone Arena in Suva.
Minister for Youth and Sports,
Hon. Laisenia Tuitubou, wel-
comed the announcement as
it offers yet another oppor-
tunity to showcase Fiji to the
world.
Netball Fijis securing the
rights to host the Netball
World Youth Cup in 2021 is
indicative of Governments
support for all sports in the
country as we continue to
host regional and internation-
al sporting events of this stat-
ure, said Minister Tuitubou.
Our hosting of this global
youth meet is a true testament
to our commitment and belief
in the importance and values
of sports, such as netball, in
the country and indeed on the
international stage and we
anticipate a successful event
come 2021 and look forward
to hosting the international
netball community here in
Fiji.
Netball Fiji President, Waini-
kiti Bogidrau, said: The suc-
cessful bid is recognition of
our hard work over the last
six years as we have worked
to revive the sport especially
in terms of where it was to
where it is now, she said.
Mrs Bogidrau added that it
also reflects the ability to host
international netball events
here in Fiji since 2012 as we
have played host to the Silver
Ferns in 2015 and last month,
to the Digicel Punjas Interna-
tional Youth Netball Series.
Winning the bid was the
easy part and now the hard
work begins in relation to
planning, working with key
stakeholders such as Govern-
ment, the Fiji National Sports
Commission and the Fiji
Sports Council in executing
key milestones that will en-
sure the successful staging of
this event.
The inaugural Netball World
Youth Cup will be held in
Gaborone, Botswana this
July with twenty countries
competing from all of the
International Netball Federa-
tions five regions, following
qualifying rounds.
Previously known as the
World Youth Netball Cham-
pionships, the event has been
held every four years since
1988 and this is the first time The Fiji Pearls and Silver Fans in action during the inaugural Oceania Netball Series at the
for Fiji to host the event. Vodafone Arena in Suva. Photo: Supplied.

Maika Kasami
PLANS are underway to
open the new-look Church-
ill Park and Tappoo City on
the same day.
Minister for Local Gov-
ernment, Urban Develop-
ment, Housing and Environ-
ment, Parveen Kumar Bala
Churchill Park, Tappoo City to open
said work at the $30million We are hoping both The new-look Churchill pected at the grounds after Bainimarama emphasized
dollar Tappoo City project projects are handed over Park which is a $5.5million its reopening in late March. that the new investment in
is on track, together with to be officially opened on refurbishment includes the Prime Minster Voreqe Lautoka will be a big boost
the final touches that has the same day. But we will 400-metre synthetic track, Bainimarama had told the for the city and its people.
been carried out at Church- confirm this later, said Mr. a first for the western divi- Tappoo Group of Com- Tappoo Group Chairman
ill Park. Bala. sion. panies during the ground Kanti Tappoo had said the
Both projects began in For Churchill Park we A new embankment is breaking ceremony back in Tappoo City Lautoka is the
2014 and are expected to are currently working on also in place replacing pa- November 20, 2004 that his latest in a series of acquisi-
be completed in March this the facelift of the two pavil- vilion C to accommodate government values their in- tions and investment taken
year. ions. the large number of fans ex- vestment and confidence. by the company.
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

RWC 7s 2018 dates to be revealed
FEBRUARY 25, 2017
Maika Kasami
THE Las Vegas leg of the HSBC
World Sevens series will see the an-
nouncement made for the dates of
next years Rugby World Cup 7s to
be played in San Francisco.
This was confirmed by United
States of America chief exectuive
officer Dan Paynein their official
website thisisamericanrugby.com.
The tournament will be the largest
tournament the U.S. has ever host-
ed. The tournament will be held at
AT&T Park in San Francisco. Will
Chang, who is on the U.S.A. Rugby
Board of Directors and Chair of the
World Cup Sevens Committee, is
also an investor in the San Francisco
Giants who play at AT&T Park. The
tournament will be played in July
but the specific dates are what will
be announced.
New Zealand are the RWC 7s
defending champions after they de-
feated England in a one-sided final
at Russias Luzhniki Stadium win-
ning 33-0.
Fiji and Kenya had battled for
third and fourth spots with the 2016
Rio Olympic champions coming out
THE J K Builders Nadi veterans
soccer team wants to play regularly
to keep its players fit for major tour-
naments.
The side in January toured Auck-
land, New Zealand to participate
in a Fiji Football Association sanc-
tioned veterans tournament.
Led by players like Watisoni
Voli, Netani Moce, Tevita Rasolo,
Randir Sen, Sairusi Niulevu, Mohd
Shamim (Lilly), Maika Kasami and
former national goalkeeper Vinod
Kumar the side reached the semifi-
nal stage where they went down to
Lorima Batireregas Sydney Suva
side 0-1.
New Zealand Nadi won the 40plus
category defeating Sydney Suva 2-0
in the final.
NZ Nadi were ably spearheaded
by former midfield general Ramen-
dra Dutt and supported by former
Nadroga midfielder Atunesh Prasad.
Team boss Jitendra Kumar said he
wishes to see the JK Builders Nadi
veterans team become a household
name in future.
Kumar said team coach Lambert
Sarju did a marvelous job with the
team as the players displayed con-
Simla Snooker leads
structive football at Bill Mackenly
Maika Kasami
SIMLA snooker have made their
intentions known by topping the
Universal Tunes/Philips Auto-
port sponsored Northwest Snooker
League after round one of games.
With players like Tony Cen, Si-
mon Reddy and former national
body president Philip Gock, Simla
will be hoping to maintain their lead
when the second round is played on
March 4.
Closely following them in second
spot are defending champions Nadi
Sports Club, then Ba Central, South
SPORTS 17
victors 29-5.
The Iliesa Tanivula coached side
had lost to the Kiwis in the semifinal
0-17.
Initially as stated the Rugby World
Cup Sevens would be scrapped if
rugby sevens were to be included
in the Olympic programme for the
2016 Summer Olympics. As the
International Olympic Committee
voted for the sports inclusion this
(2013) was thought likely to be the
last edition of the tournament.
However, World Rugby later clar-
ified in June 2013, the tournament
would be retained and held quadren-
nially from 2018.
Meanwhile, USA sevens star
Danny Barrett reveals what hosting
RWC Sevens 2018 in San Francisco
will do for rugby in the country and
his desire to inspire the next genera-
tion to play the sport he loves.
For Americans, having Rugby
World Cup Sevens come to our : Fiji were impressive 45-0 winners over Tonga in the RWC 7 2013 in Moscow, Russia. Metuisela Talebula runs in
country, especially fresh off of an for one of the several tries.
Olympic year, couldnt be better to compete and you are chal- fans, especially in the United best step. It gives us players the
timing, said the tough forward. lenged at a whole new level. States. next big event to work towards, and
The Olympics was an amaz- I think it not only rekindled that We really have built a foundation the fans something to look forward
ing experience. It is the pinnacle of child-like excitement about playing, for the sport to grow and to bring the to and build excitement around.
sports. The best in the world come but it has sparked the interest of the World Cup here in 2018 is the next
Nadi veterans to play regularly
Football Stadium.
It was really unfortunate we lost
in the semis. The team was really
gelling well and becoming one of
the favourites for the title but the
bounce of the ball did not go our
way when it mattered. It was hard
luck really but now we are look-
ing towards the future as we need
to maintain the name of the team,
Kumar said.
Our coach joined us for this
tour and was not part of us during
our Pacific Cup outing. So he now
knows which positions we need to
strengthen and there will surely be
changes made before the next tour-
nament.
Kumar plans to take the team to
Australia later this year and prepa-
ration for the next tour will begin
soon.
The first up plan is for the team
to be included in the Nadi Football
Association Local League competi-
tion where players will get the op-
portunity to play regularly every
weekend.
For our next tour we will need to The JK Builders Nadi veteran soccer team pictured after one of their matches at Bill Mackenly Football Stadium
do a lot of fundraising to help us fi- in Auckland, New Zealand. Photos: Supplied.
nancially, added Kumar.
Seas Club and Lautoka Club. for the second round and is aware of
Current nationals champion their current position in the table.
Nitesh Chand who was formerly We are fourth on a tie with Lau-
with Simla is now nurturing young toka Club so we are training well
upcoming players with South Seas and hope to improve our game from
Club. the first round.
We have a very young team
with players who are eager to learn Nitesh Chand (Back Left) with the
the game. This league is a perfect Simla Dragons Snooker Club in
foundation for these players to de- 2015 at the Lautoka Club. Photo:
velop their game. They get to play Maika Kasami
and watch players who have repre-
sented the country or those that have
played at the highest level locally so
its good for the game, said Chand.
He said his team is gearing up well
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
18 SPORTS

Master Roneel wins Summer Cup

FEBRUARY 25, 2017

Maika Kasami

Ashish Chand SCHOOL teacher Roneel Prakash was crowned the winner of the 2017 Gecko Trucking/
(left) presents P.Mehgji Limited sponsored Summer Cup at the Lautoka Golf Club.
the NTP and Prakash shot an 8-under par 61 to amass the highest points.
longest drive He recorded wins in the fourth and fifth rounds of the five-week long tournament.
prize to 2017 Prakash said this was the first ever time he had won the competition.
Summer Cup Ive been a member of the Lautoka Golf Club for over a decade but this is the first time Ive
winner Roneel won the Summer Cup.
Prakash. Pho- Im slowly starting to get back to form and come the major tournaments I should be better
tos: Maika prepared with my game, said the Lautoka Delana Primary School teacher.
Kasami Richard Eyre won the C-grade with a net 61 with Vikash Chand as runner-up. Gaffar Ali took
out the B-grade while Pastor Pritam Singh settling for second spot.
Bobby Reddy claimed the NTP on the ninth hole and winner Prakash also bagged the NTP on
the second hole and longest drive.
In the visitors category, Ashish Chand was the winner with Rohit Chandra (runner-up).
LGC Chairman of Trustees Raymond Singh thanked members for
their attendance throughout the five-weeks of competition.
Im very much indeed honoured to see the members coming in full
force to support the golf club that is only run by the members of this
golf club who work their heart and mind to see that we get our own
sponsors and to see competitions are played every week.
Singh also reminded members to be fully financial by the first week
of March.
Despite the rainy conditions we managed to finish our five rounds of
the Summer Cup. The 2017 subs is due at the end of the month (Febru-
ary). You have to be fully financial to play at the golf course. Come the
first of March, if members have not paid their subs they will need to pay
the green fees to use the golf course and the facilities, Singh added.

Back left, Surend Pillay, Vijay Ram, Raymond Singh (front-left) with
Roneel Prakash during the Gecko Trucking/P. Meghji Limited spon-
sored Summer Cup 2017.

The winning putt..Roneel Prakash seals his win with the winning
putt to claim the 2017 Summer Cup at the LGC.
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 SPORTS 19

Fiji 7s on rebuilding phase

FEBRUARY 25, 2017

Maika Kasami Vegas 7s was done at the completion of the

The Fiji 7s team celebrates after winning the Las Vegas 7s last year. Photos: Supplied.
Warriors to defend title in Fiji
Fiji Rugby Union
The schedule for the World Rugby Pacific Challenge 2017
has been announced and the Fiji Warriors will defend their title Challenge
in Suva in March.
Four teams will battle it out in Suva next month, with Fiji
Warriors hosting Samoa A, Tonga A and Junior Japan. The
round-robin tournament will take place on 10, 14 and 18
Australia 7s.
THE result may not be not what the Fiji Fiji for their fifth spot finish in Sydney is
sevens rugby followers are after but we in Pool D along with Australia, Japan and
should give new sevens coach Gareth Scotland.
Baber and the current set of players more The national side faces Japan first up at
time to find their footing. 12-09pm on Saturday March 4 (Fiji Time),
They have failed to win in Dubai, South followed by the Scotland match at 3-08pm.
Africa, Wellington and Gold Coast. The final pool fixture is against Australia
South Africa have dominated the first two at 9-50am on March 5.
legs (winning three), it is no doubt they Barring any upsets, Fiji will face the Pool
have stamped their authority as the team to A runner up which has series leaders South
beat in the 2016/2017 season. Africa, Wales, France and Canada.
Trailing by 19 points from the Blitzboks, If the national side do finish runner-up
the national side will be hoping the Afri- then they could face the Blitzboks provided
cans will lose points in the remaining tour- the latter side win they pool.
naments and they finish better than them to The national side on their day is capable
stand a chance of recording their third se- of defeating the Boks, and a ploy could be
ries win on the trot. set to finish as runner-up and go face to face
Barber is facing the challenge of working with the Neil Powell coached side as early
with new sets of players coupled with a few as the quarterfinal stage and beat them.
old hands as he tries to get our national side The focus shifts to Vancouver, Canada the
back on winning track. following weekend.
It will surely take time and we critics and Standings: S/Africa- 85points, Eng-
die-hard fans need to understand the re- land-68, Fiji-64, NZ- 56, Scotland- 45.
building phase we need to undergo as we Pool A: South Africa, Wales, France, Can-
look towards Mission Tokyo in 2020 as we ada; Pool B: England, USA, Samoa, Chile;
defend our Olympics gold medal. Pool C: New Zealand, Argentina, Russia,
Meanwhile, the pool draws for the Las Kenya; Pool D: Australia, Fiji, Japan, Scot-
land.
March at the ANZ Stadium in the Fijian capital. tainly an exciting event for fans in Suva.
The World Rugby Pacific Challenge is a key developmen- In 2016 Fiji Warriors remind unbeaten and scored five tries
tal tournament for high-performance A sides, which creates a and 36 unanswered points against Samoa A to lift the World
quality competition pathway for targeted investment unions. Rugby Pacific Challenge trophy in front of a 4,000-strong
World Rugby Chairman Bill Beaumont said: The Pacific crowd at the ANZ Stadium in Suva on Monday. Tonga A,
helps local and academy players gain beneficial meanwhile, reserved their best performance until last to take
game time and gives exposure to a high-performance tourna- third place in a high-scoring game against Junior Japan which
ment environment. ended 44-30.
Fiji won last years tournament but I expect theyll face Details on where fans can watch the event will be announced
tough competition to retain the trophy next month. Its cer- in due course.

Ba, Rewa set for O-League

Rewas Mitieli Namuka during a friendly match against the National senior team in preparation
for the 2017 Oceania Champions League. Photo: Anushil Kumar/VODAFONE.

Maika Kasami
BA and Rewa will be car-
rying the hopes of the nation
when they feature in the 2017
Oceania Football Confedera-
tion sanctioned Champions
League.
Ba are grouped with Team
Wellington, Hienghene Sport (
New Caledonia) and Puaikura
of Cook Islands in Pool B.
The 2016 Vodafone Premier
League champs face Hieng-
hene Sport first up on February
26 at the Stade Yoshida.
On March 1, they tackle
Puaikura before meeting Wel-
lington on March 4 in probably
the decider.
The Delta Tigers have AS
Tefana (Tahiti), Marist (Solo-
mons Islands) and Vanuatus
Erakor Golden Star.
The Marika Rodu coached
side, who are making their de-
but in the competition have a
tough opening fixture against
Marist FC on March 11. They
clash with AS Tefana on March
14 before their final pool en-
counter against Erakor Golden
Star on March 17.
Ba will play their group
matches in New Caledonia
while Rewa will have theirs in
Tahiti.
The 2017 OFC Champions
League is the 16th edition of
the Oceanian Club Champion-
ship, Oceanias premier club
football tournament organ-
ized by the Oceania Football
Confederation (OFC), and the
11th season under the current
of OFC Champions League
name.
For the semi-finals, the four
teams are drawn into two ties,
which are played in home-and-
away format over two legs (in-
stead of a single match).For the
final, the tie is played in home-
and-away format over two legs
(instead of a single match).
The winners of the 2017
OFC Champions League will
qualify as the OFC representa-
tive at the 2017 FIFA Club
World Cup in the United Arab
Emirates.
Auckland City are the six-
time defending champions.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

20

We lack quality strikers: Gamel

FEBRUARY 25, 2017

Maika Kasami

FIJI lacks quality strikers.

That is the verdict of new Vodafone na-
tional soccer coach Christopher Gamel
after being in the country for more than
a month.
The French man recently met Wel-
lington Phoenix striker Roy Krishna and
heaped praises on the Siberia, Labasa lad.
Gamel said Roy is a good professional.
From what Ive seen here, there is no
local player like Roy, that is for sure.
He (Roy) is a good professional. He
is a good finisher, he can score goals, at
the moment there is none in Fiji, said
Gamel.
The national team is currently in camp
preparing for the FIFA Oceania world
cup qualifiers against the New Zealand
All Whites at the end of March in Lau-
toka.
The senior national team has been hav-
ing several warm up matches against dis-
trict teams around the country.
In a recent clash, the national side went

Sports
down to the Capital City side Suva 0-1.
Even Gamel applauded Pita Rabos
spectacular finish past national goalkeep-
er Beniamino Matarerega.
The national team enjoyed tons of pos-
session but failed to turn them into points.
When you create lots of goal scoring
opportunities and dont score even one,
there is always a possibility that you will
concede one.
The good point from the match is no-
body gave up. We kept on pressing.
National coach Christopher Gamel rates Roy Krishna (pictured with ball) as one of the top strikers Fiji has ever produced. Photo: Supplied

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