2022 DIWALI SOUVENIR EDITION

OCTOBER , 2022 SERVING THE COMMUNITY OF FIJI WITH PASSION PRICE: $1.00
02 ADVERTISEMENT OCTOBER , 2022

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Scheme Eligibility Criteria
An applicant must:
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determined by the Board or delegated authority on case-by-case basis.
C. be in Year 13 or such equivalent studies as determined by TSLS at the time of application. An
applicant who has completed Foundation Studies and repeats Year 13 is not eligible to apply for the
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D. apply for a priority area as advertised by TSLS on its online application portal via www.tsls.com.fj
E. secure a place at an eligible institution by means of a final offer letter.
F. be fully vaccinated or exempted by Ministry of Health and Medical Services if above the age of 18.

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Scheme Eligibility Criteria
An applicant must:
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Board or delegated authority on case-by-case basis.
C. have completed Year 13 in 2011 or thereafter locally and
scored a minimum of 250/400 in the Fiji Year 13 Examinationexcept for Commerce
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E. secure a place at an eligible institution by means of a final offer letter.
F.apply for TELS funding advertised by TSLS on its online application portal via www.tsls.com.fj
G. be fully vaccinated or exempted by Ministry of Health and Medical Services if above the age of 18.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 03 NEWS
Prophet Muhammed’s teachings – universal virtues President Katonivere promotes unity for Fiji Day
Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama receiving a special token of appreciation from
Mau’natul Islam Association National President Mohammed Rafiq during the Prophet President Ratu Williame Katonivere inspects the parade at the Fiji Day celebration in
Muhammed birthday celebration in Lautoka. Photos: Sanjay Goundar
Zareena Bi
Prophet Muhammed, peace be upon him, was described as one of history’s greatest thinkers
by Prime Minister Rear Admiral (Retired) Frank Bainimarama while officiating the National Eid
Milad Un Nabi Jalsa organized by Ma’unatul Islam Association Fiji at their Vomo Steet Mosque
in Lautoka on October 9.
The Prime Minister highlighted that the virtues that he extolled; those of respect, peace, unity,
justice, charity and compassion are universal guiding virtues for people of all cultural, ethnic and
religious backgrounds who have sought peace and progress over thousands of years, just as they
guide Fijians today.
“As the Muslims of the world believe, the Prophet Muhammed, (PBUH), lived a life worthy of
emulation. He was a model for how to improve the world through our interactions with others,
even in the simplest of ways. Even a smile he said is charity.
“He showed us that we should be gentle in our speech and manner, that we should care for the
vulnerable and we should extend compassion to all in our lives. He taught his followers to stand
up against injustice and racism in all of its ugly forms.
“And when we put these basic lessons into practice, we will not only be better as individuals,
Fijian society will also be more peaceful and just and the country we love will be stronger.”
Meanwhile Mau’natul Islam Association National President Mohammed Rafiq thanked the
government for their decisive vaccination initiative in ensuring that the Covid 19 pandemic was
contained which enabled the Association to hold national celebrations for Prophet Muhammed’s
(PBUH) birthday.
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
OCTOBER, 2022
Lautoka on October 10 at Churchill Park
Zareena Bi
“This year’s Fiji Day theme, ‘A Transformed, Inclusive, and United Fiji for All’ is not the
final or ultimate proclamation, it is a commitment we must continue to transform as a country,
and we must always strive to be more inclusive. We must seize every opportunity to strengthen
and affirm our unity.”
President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere made this declaration during his Fiji Day address on
October 10 and as Fiji celebrates its 52nd anniversary, he says this is also a time to affirm a
renewal of our commitment to bettering Fiji.
“Today is a day of celebration for all that we have achieved in our journey as a sovereign
state.
“So be joyous, be together with your friends and your loved ones and let us be grateful that
we can call this beautiful country our home.
“We are rapidly developing we becoming more resilient we are delivering better services we
are empowering more people through education, we are creating more sustainable and higher
pay livelihoods and we are set in a sound strategic direction in a strong stable foundation.”
Ratu Wiliame says Fijians celebrate an inclusive Fiji because the government has gone
further to care for and empower those that are vulnerable in society.
He says in the worst of the pandemic, the government delivered the largest socio-economic
support package in Fijian history to assist tens of thousands of Fijians.
In addition, Ratu Wiliame says a levelled playing field has been created through a progressive
Constitution and we have worked hard to forge our unity.
04 NEWS OCTOBER , 2022

Resurgence of
Natabua cadets
Sanjay Goundar

After a lapse of two years the annual cadet pass-out parade of

Natabua High School created a major buzz in the Sugar City recently.
The mother of all cadet pass out parades in Fiji regenerated enor-
mous appreciation and interest from members of the public from
throughout the western division who were present at the Natabua
High School grounds on September 30 to witness their children and
loves ones parade in front of a large gathering.
Around 1,100 young cadets bravely battled the scorching heat to
showcase their exemplary display.
Chief Guest at the cadets review event Republic of Fiji Military
Forces Commander Joint Taskforce Brigadier General Manoa Gadai
revealed that he was very pleased to see the reintroduction of the ca-
dets program at Natabua High School after a break of two years due
to the global pandemic Covid-19.
Commander Gadai pointed out that all students in the cadet parade

ARROW GROUP are leaders on their own right.

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Phone: 7771517 “To the young man and woman in parade today you are the future
leaders and the hope of this great nation. The nations reposes its trust
on you, it looks to you with pride and with optimism.”
Brigadier General Gadai congratulated the parents and guardians
Happy Diwali & a Prosperous New Year to Everyone of the cadets along with the teachers for their overwhelming support,
sacrifice and dedication towards the school’s annual cadets review
program.

Natabua High School Parade Commander and Head Boy Ratu

Manoa Kaiyanuyanu receiving the Baton of Honour.

Building On Quality, Delivering Concrete Results Year 13 cadets of Natabua High School give their final salute

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 05 NEWS OCTOBER , 2022

Clyde welcomes overseas directors

Visiting Clyde Equipment (Pacific) Ltd directors Kerin and Brett Russel with general One of the Clyde Equipment (Pacific) Ltd directors from New Zealand Brett Russel being
manager Praful Dhokai at their office in Lautoka. Photos: Sanjay Goundar welcomed with the traditional Fijian drink Yaqona during his recent visit to the country.

Zareena Bi
“The Clyde team is thankful to all the directors for supporting us during the Covid crisis,
which enabled our team to sail through troubled waters.”
These were the words of gratitude shared by Clyde Equipment (Pacific) Ltd general manager
Praful Dhokai, while giving a brief business update to the directors Kerin and Brett Russel
during their recent visit from New Zealand at their Lautoka branch.
The manager added that due to the support of the directors the Clyde team can proudly say
that their company operations remain stable despite the Covid crisis.
“The team is thrilled by this visit and have decided to accord a traditional Fijian welcome to
them at our branch.
“Such interactions with top level management works well for the entire team’s morale and we
wish them a wonderful time in our paradise.
“Thank you for visiting us and we are grateful for your valuable time. We have faced difficult
times during the pandemic and this makes your visit more special.”
Meanwhile, Mr Russell acknowledged all the staff members of Clyde Equipment Ltd for
sticking together during the peak COVID-19 period.
“The company is only as good as its people, and you guys are the company.
“We love the people working in this company and all of you have done an awesome job and
we are very thankful for that.”
The directors were also given a tour of the products showroom and spent some quality time
with the staff members.
The Russell’s were in Fiji on a holiday with their family and spent a few days at one of the
island resorts as part of their holiday.
Meanwhile, earlier in May this year Clyde Equipment (Pacific) Ltd managing director Mark
Irvine and Group chief financial officer (CFO) Don Churches also visited the country.

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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 06 LAUTOKA CITY COUNCIL NEWS OCTOBER , 2022

Bala acknowledges LCC contribution

Minister for Youth and Sports Praveen Bala during the occasion of the ground-breaking ceremony for the Minister for Youth and Sports Praveen Bala with chairman of the
construction of the New Multi-Purpose court at the Kamikamica Park. Photos: Supplied Council Special Administration Committee Anil Amin (2nd from right)
and CEO Mohammed Anees Khan at the ground breaking ceremony
Minister for Youth and Sports Praveen Bala has acknowl- Government will invest $127,530.00 in this project and will City Council and its Management for allocating a piece of land
edged the contribution of the Lautoka City Council on the oc- provide better sporting facilities for more Fijians. to construct this multipurpose court as well as an engineering
casion of the ground-breaking ceremony for the construction “The project that will start today is more than just a sporting certification, Chands Maintenance & Renovation PTE Ltd for
of the New Multi-Purpose court at the Kamikamica Park on facility; we see it in the broader context, as an important part of the construction of the facility, the Ministry of Infrastructure
September 26. the greater effort to connect our communities through strategic and Meteorological Services for the design layout of the mul-
Minister Bala extended his sincere thanks to the Chairman infrastructure investment,” said Bala. tipurpose court, and the Sports Development Unit staff of the
of LCC and its management for allocating a piece of land to This new facility will have a great positive impact on this Youth and Sports Ministry for facilitating this project.”
construct this multi-purpose court as well as providing the en- community as it will promote health and wellbeing and also Minister Bala further highlighted that these projects are bud-
gineering certification. identify some talents in the community. geted for by the Government and are part of the Ministry’s
The Sokovata Youth Club and members of the community “The pouring of the first concrete for the new Multi-purpose strategic and annual plans to assist Fijian youth in their devel-
in Rifle Range, Lautoka will be the beneficiary for this new Court here at Kamikamica Park is the result of planning, hard opment, well-being as well as empowerment, and sustainabil-
project. work, and coordination by many partners,” he added. ity through the Ministry’s Mobile and Specific Skills training
Minister Bala during the official opening highlighted that “I extend my sincere thanks to the Chairman of the Lautoka programmes.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 07
Churchill Park closed for renovations
Churchill Park’s ground number 2 and 3 are part of the major renovation program being carried out by the council.
The number one sporting facility in the west, Churchill
Park will undergo renovations.
The last major sporting competition held at the Park was
the Fiji Secondary School Rugby Deans final on October 8,
which was followed by the Fiji Day celebrations.
Lautok City Council CEO Mohammed Khan confirmed
Lautoka’s Churchill Park will be closed immediately for
renovations ahead of the hosting of the three Fijian Drua
matches at the venue.
According to the CEO, they are working on removing the
turf from the stadium and using it outside in ground 2 and 3.
Khan says work will take around three months which will
also see a new turf at the main ground.
“We had two options, one was to just kill the grass at
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
LAUTOKA CITY COUNCIL NEWS OCTOBER , 2022
Beware of Termites
September to November is the usual swarming
season for Asian Subterranean Termites (AST).
This is the time of the year when the AST flies
away from its parent colonies to breed and start new
colonies of their own.
If you want to check your homes for termites, in-
spect the following places carefully:
• Any wooden parts of the basement and crawl space
(if present).
• All sills, sub floors, joists, support posts, sup-
porting piers, basement window frames, and wood
under porches. Pay close attention to places where
concrete: steps, porches, or slabs join the wooden
structure.
• All the hollow blocks, cracks in cement or brick
construction, and expansion joints.
• Any scrap wood on the exterior, old tree stumps,
fence posts, and exterior frames of basement win-
dows.
If you suspect a termite infestation in your home,
do not wait, inform the Biosecurity Authority of Fiji
immediately!
Call BAF on 3312512 or Short Codes: General En-
quiries - 5994, Termites - 5996 or visit their website:
www.baf.com.fj for more information.
the existing turf, remove it and plant new ones, the other
option was we needed a new training turf, a lot of clubs and
association and even overseas teams that come they look for
good facility to train on so we thought we will just get a
facility for them to maximize on that potential,” Khan told
media.
Khan says the old turf is around 10 years old and will
be used outside of Churchill Park where it will be kept to
international standards.
He adds the stadium lights project is a separate work which
would take around one year following the budget approval
by the Government.This is also in preparation for the Fiji
Drua games that will be held at the Sugar City next season. Devastation by Asian Subterranean Termites
 08 NEWS OCTOBER , 2022

EDITORIAL COMMENT In those 17years, Fiji failed to win back the sevens world cup
on three occassions. The first world cup was played in 1993
that was won by England.
in the country will be celebrating the festival of lights in a
big way.
Diwali is a day that brings light, joy and happiness to our

Fiji 7s and Festival of Lights
Diwali and probably Christmas came early for the Fiji
Airways Fiji 7s team when they were crowned world sevens
champions in Cape Town, South Africa.
The national side ended a seventeen-year drought dating back
to 2005 in Hong Kong.
After near misses in the World Sevens series, the two-masters
of the abbreviated code, Ben Gollings and Viliame Satala
guided the two-time Olympic Champions to defeat New
Zealand in the final and hoist the Melrose Cup for only the
third time.
English man Gollings and the man from Namoli Village in
Lautoka were part of the 2005 teams for their respective
countries.
A victory celebration was held in the Capital to commemorate
the win where the team marched through the streets of Suva
City ending at the HFC Stadium in Laucala Oval where
the players were accorded a traditional ceremony before
receiving their $10,000 purse each.
It was a fitting finale and finish to the sevens season in the
world stage as the team took a three weeks break before
embarking on yet another mission, the 2022/2023 HSBC
World Sevens Series.
According to Gollings, the team will be featuring in an
Olympics Legacy match in Japan in late October before
moving on to the Hong Kong 7s; ten- days later for the start
of the new season.
Meanwhile, the festival of Diwali falls on October 25,
Tuesday, this year.
With the economy now taking back shape, most households
lives.
Its the most looked forward festival in the Hindu calendar but
which is celebrated by all races in Fiji.
Its the victory of good over evil. And for Fiji and those that
have battled COVID 19, its a huge triumph over this deadly
disease that has killed millions of people around the world.
This victory will help inspire us to battle any outbreak that
may come fourth in future.
From the City Star Newspaper team we wish all our readers
and corporate clients the very best wishes on this auspicious
occassion.
A Merry and Happy Diwali to all!
Maika Kasami
Editor

Economic empowerment vital for women

Zareena Bi
“Equity and economic empowerment are very important
elements for women and since they are the primary care givers
for their families’ better education is essential to achieve these
goals.”
These personal objectives for her biennium was shared by
the President of Soroptimist International South East Asia
Pacific (SIEAP), Christine Johnstone during her recent visit to
Fiji to charter the tenth SI club in the country, SI Gold Town
Tavua.
The President added that SI has made progress as last year
the organization celebrated its 100th anniversary.
“As a women’s non-governmental organization we are in a
124 country worldwide with 80,000 odd members.
“On September 17 we managed to charter another club in
Fiji, SI Gold Town Tavua and that makes ten clubs in Fiji so
we can say that it is an extremely powerful organization when
a country of less than one million people has ten Soroptimist
clubs to work for the women and families in their communities.
“Soroptimists in Fiji are very impressive as they work very
well with their government officials in their areas and they
look for them for partnerships in their projects.”
President Johnstone informed that Soroptimist clubs work
under the eight objectives of the Sustainable Development
Goals (SDGs) and it is up to the clubs to go out in their
communities and see where the shortfalls are.
“While our project areas are aimed for women they actually
do include men as well so we are not exclusively for women
but we are primarily for women.
“We have seen some amazing projects done by our
Soroptimist sisters in Fiji and our visit is taking us around the
Island through the King and Queens road.”
Meanwhile, since its Charter as a Federation in its own right
in 1978, the South East Asia Pacific has grown from three
member countries, Australia, New Zealand and Fiji, to include
13 countries - these include Mongolia, Hong Kong, Malaysia,
Cambodia, Thailand, Samoa, Singapore, Indonesia, Papua President of SI South East Asia Pacific (SIEAP), Christine
New Guinea and Myanmar. Johnstone (3rd from left) at SI Lautoka’s waste management
project at the Ami Chandra Memorial Primary School

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 09 RELIGIOUS SUPPLEMENT OCTOBER, 2022

Sufi Saint visits Aastaana Aaliyah Saifiya

Spiritual master of the ‘Saifi’ doctrine, Peer Syed Imroz Dean Saifi preaching to his disciples in Velovelo Lautoka during
his recent visit to Fiji. Photo: Sanjay Goundar
A spiritual master of the ‘Saifi’ doctrine, Peer Syed Imroz of Islam based on the Ahle Sunnah Wal Jamah as defined in The intention is to bring an Islamic Professor to teach this
Dean Saifi recently visited Fiji to meet his disciples at the The Holy Quran and the traditions and practices (sunnah) of course and a Sunni Islamic University from abroad would
Aastana (centre) in Velovelo, Lautoka. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh), and his beloved companions. accredit it.
More than three hundred of his disciples including about one The disciples gather at the centre for all Islamic activities. During the week of religious activities, the main programme
hundred disciples from Canada, Australia and New Zealand Religious classes for ladies are conducted on weekly basis, focused on the glory and the greatness of The Holy Quran.
(all former Fiji residents) gathered at the Aastana for a week and the students residing at the dormitory attend daily religious The Attorney General, Hon Aiyaz Sayed Khaiyum was present
for the remembrance of Allah (dhikr). classes. as the chief guest who emphasised on the Islamic teachings
His eminence Peer Syed Imroz Dean Saifi was born in Nadi, Peer Syed Imroz Deans visit this year centred on two main on peace, prosperity and caring for one another irrespective of
and at present resides in Vancouver Canada. aspects. His eminence laid the foundation for the multimillion- race or religion.
Under his spiritual guidance, the Aastana was established, dollar Masjid on the premises and also launched the religious His eminence Peer Syed Imroz Dean Saifi with his disciples
it’s vision- “towards a prosperous and peaceful society”. The scholars (Aalim) course. In addition to students memorizing acknowledges the Minister and the Government of Fiji for
mission of the centre is to practice and promote the religion The Holy Quran, full Aalim course will begin very soon. providing the freedom of religious practice.

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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 10
Mending Minds Foundation launched
The much anticipated NGO Mending Minds Foundation was recently launched in Lautoka. Photo: Supplied
Zareena Bi
The Covid 19 pandemic has given rise to many
needs for individuals and families and mental health
support has emerged as one of the top needs.
This need has given rise to a new Lautoka based
NGO, Mending Minds Foundation, which was
launched at the Tanoa Waterfront Hotel on September
30.
Chief guest at the event Chairman of the Viseisei
Sai Health Centre Trust Dr. Rajat Gyaneshwar
congratulated the NGO on its establishment and
highlighted that the statistics speaks for itself for the
need of such an NGO.
There has been 70 suicides in Viti Levu this year
alone and for a country that has less than 1 million
people this is a huge number.
“Also, almost 70% of women in this country has
suffered partner violence and child protection is an
issue.
“”I think mending minds is coming at a good time
and I know that there are many partners working in
the communities on making Fiji a better and healthier
NEWS
place. I wish you all the best because if you can work
together we are much more likely to achieve the
goal.”
Meanwhile, the Executive Director of Mending
Minds Foundation Prem Singh shared their vision of
creating a safe space for individuals to heal and grow.
“Our aim is to enhance quality of life by overcoming
barriers and maximizing potentials, empower every
Fijian regardless of their income to have excess to
competent mental health and psychosocial support
services and be the preeminent center of excellence
by boldly transforming counselling to ensure social
change.
“One in five individuals will experience a
diagnosable mental health condition for their lifetime
and it has long been the case that individuals with
mental health conditions are amongst the most
abused and discriminated against.”
Singh added that there is a stigma attached to
mental health for hundreds of years now but the good
news is that the stigma has lessened and will continue
to disintegrate, as we understand more about what
mental health is.
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
OCTOBER , 2022
Broad learning experience for Sorokoba
native at USP Lautoka Open Day
Maharishi Sanatan College Head Girl Mere Vakacoa with her form teacher Asish
Kumar at the USP Lautoka Campus Open Day. Photo: Supplied
Attending the University of the South Lautoka Campus Open Day this year
was a great learning experience for the head girl of Maharishi Sanatan College
from Nadi, Mere Vakacoa.
The 18-year-old Sorokoba native who is currently staying in Votualevu Nadi
with her parents visited the USP Lautoka campus for the first time.
The Year 13 pupil revealed that she was very eager to visit USP Open Day
this year to get all relevant information about the program she intends to enroll
in next year.
Being an arts student with great interest in geography and history Vakacoa
hopes to pursue a career in the land management sector.
“I want to undertake the land management course so I strongly believe USP
will be the best place for my tertiary education.
“The university that we choose determines the future that is ahead of us
“I am very excited about visiting the University today and USP is an institu-
tion that everyone is looking forward to get into and that is what pushes us to
gain good marks
“At the Open Day I want to know about the different programs being offered
by USP, the scholarships that are offered for the programs. I want to become
familiar with the University so when I join next year I am comfortable and
familiar with the University environment.”
Vakacoa revealed that she was returning quite satisfied from the Lautoka
Campus Open day and was grateful to the staff members for the different in-
formative sessions.
11 ADVERTISEMENT OCTOBER, 2022

Applications open
for Trimester I,
2023 Intake
- Lautoka
Nurturing you Applications will
to the highest level close on 31 October,
2022

www.usp.ac.fj/mba

Download an Application for Admission to

The Graduate School of Business a Graduate School of Business programme
is inviting applications for its Trimester I, 2023 Intake for the form from www.usp.ac.fj/forms
following programmes:
(679) 6666800
■ Master of Business Administration (MBA)
mba@usp.ac.fj/usplautoka@usp.ac.fj
■ Post Graduate Diploma in Business Administration
■ Post Graduate Certificate in Business Administration www.usp.ac.fj/mba

MBA
@USP In the MBA programme, I met and
learned from astonishingly talented
individuals from various industry
backgrounds. Additionally, I had the
opportunity to learn from lecturers
who had vast knowledge of their
subject areas, and this has been an
extremely fulfilling and humbling
experience for me.
Overall, as a medical doctor, I would
say the MBA programme was very
rewarding, despite my busy schedule
and commitments”

Dr. Anoshia Khan Niazi

Medical Doctor
Oceania Hospitals Pte Limited
USP - Shaping
Pacific Futures

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

12 ADVERTISEMENT OCTOBER , 2022

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

13 ADVERTISEMENT OCTOBER , 2022

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Located at 40 Namoli Avenue, Lautoka Opposite Village 4 Cinemas
Contact: (679) 995 3119 Email: pappusweets@gmail.com

P R O S P E R O U S N E W year to all
HAPPY DIWALI & A

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

14 ADVERTISEMENT OCTOBER, 2022

Admission for Semester 1, 2023 is Open

Undergraduate Programmes Postgraduate Programmes
JUSTICE DEVENDRA PATHIK SCHOOL OF LAW JUSTICE DEVENDRA PATHIK SCHOOL OF LAW
Bachelor of Laws Postgraduate Cer�ficate in Peacekeeping
Postgraduate Diploma in Public Law
SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS Graduate Diploma in Legal Prac�ce
Certificate in Foundation Studies (Commerce) Postgraduate Cer�ficate in Interna�onal Rela�ons
Certificate in Small Business Administration Postgraduate Diploma in Interna�onal Rela�ons
Diploma in Accounting Master of Interna�onal Rela�ons and Diplomacy
Diploma in Economics Master of Laws
Diploma in Management Doctor of Philosophy in Law
Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting Doctor of Philosophy in Interna�onal Rela�ons and Diplomacy
Bachelor of Commerce in Economics
Bachelor of Commerce in Management SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AND ECONOMICS
Bachelor of Commerce in Resource Economics & Management Postgraduate Cer�ficate in Business Administra�on (General Management, Human
Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting/Economics Resource Management, Tourism and Hospitality Management) (Trimester)
Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting/Management Postgraduate Diploma in Accoun�ng
Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting/Information Technology Postgraduate Diploma in Economics
Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting/Mathematics Postgraduate Diploma in Management
Bachelor of Commerce in Economics/Management Postgraduate Diploma in Business Administra�on (General Management, Human
Bachelor of Commerce in Economics/Information Technology Resource Management, Tourism and Hospitality Management) (Trimester)
Bachelor of Commerce in Economics/Mathematics Master of Commerce in Accoun�ng
Bachelor of Commerce in Management/Information Technology Master of Commerce in Economics
Bachelor of Commerce in Economics/iTaukei Master of Commerce in Management
Bachelor of Commerce in Tourism Studies/Accounting Master of Business Administra�on (General Management, Human Resource
Bachelor of Commerce in Tourism Studies/Economics Management, Tourism and Hospitality Management) (Trimester)
Bachelor of Commerce in Tourism Studies/Management Doctor of Philosophy in Accoun�ng
Bachelor of Commerce in Tourism Studies/Information Technology Doctor of Philosophy in Economics
Doctor of Philosophy in Management
SCHOOL OF HUMANITIES & ARTS Doctor of Business Administra�on
Basic Conversa�onal English for Beginners
Cer�ficate in Founda�on Studies (Social Science) SCHOOL OF HUMANITIES & ARTS
Diploma in English Language and Literature Postgraduate Diploma in Educa�on
Diploma in Hindi Language and Indian Culture Postgraduate Diploma in Educa�onal Leadership
Diploma in Counselling Postgraduate Diploma in Language and Literature (English)
Bachelor of Journalism and Media Studies Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching English as a Second Language
Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) Postgraduate Diploma in Hindi Literature
Bachelor of Teaching (Primary) In-service Postgraduate Diploma in Governance and Public Policy
Bachelor of Arts in English Language & Literature/Management Master of Arts in Governance and Public Policy (Offered from Semester II 2023)
Bachelor of Arts in English Language & Literature/Hindi Language & Indian Culture Master of Teaching
Bachelor of Arts in English Language & Literature/iTaukei Studies Master of Educa�onal Leadership
Bachelor of Arts in English Language & Literature /Informa�on Technology Master of Arts in Hindi Literature
Bachelor of Inter-Disciplinary Studies Master of Arts in Language and Literature (English)
Bachelor of Arts and Graduate Diploma in Teaching Master of Arts in Teaching English as a Second Language
Bachelor of Commerce and Graduate Diploma in Teaching Doctor of Philosophy in English Literature
Bachelor of Science and Graduate Diploma in Teaching Doctor of Philosophy in Educa�on
Graduate Diploma in Teaching
SCHOOL OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
SCHOOL OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY Postgraduate Diploma in Informa�on Technology
Cer�ficate in Founda�on Studies (Science) Postgraduate Diploma in Energy and Environment (PGDEEN)
Diploma in Informa�on Technology Postgraduate Diploma in Mathema�cs
Bachelor of Agricultural Engineering Master of Science in Mathema�cs
Bachelor of Science in Biology/Chemistry Master of Informa�on Technology
Bachelor of Science in Chemistry/Physics Master of Science in Renewable Energy Management (MScREM)
Bachelor of Science in Mathema�cs/Physics Master of Science in Informa�on Technology
Bachelor of Science in Biology/Informa�on Technology Master of Science in Physics
Bachelor of Science in Physics/Informa�on Technology Master of Science in Environmental Science
Bachelor of Science in Informa�on Technology/Mathema�cs Doctor of Philosophy in Physics
Bachelor of Environmental Science Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Science
Bachelor of Informa�on Technology Doctor of Philosophy in Informa�on Technology
Doctor of Philosophy in Mathema�cs
UMANAND PRASAD SCHOOL OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH SCIENCES
Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) Applicants are encouraged to download the admission form from the following
Bachelor of Medical Health Science
link: h�p://www.unifiji.ac.�/apply/ and email to admissions@unifiji.ac.�
Bachelor of Public Health and Primary Health Care
Bachelor of Nursing Science Honours
Bachelor of Nursing Post Registra�on (In-service) Completed applica�on forms can be posted to:

CENTRE FOR iTAUKEI STUDIES Admissions

Diploma in iTaukei Language and Culture Student Academic Services
Bachelor of Arts in iTaukei Language, Literature and Culture (ITK) and Management The University of Fiji
Private Mail Bag
Lautoka.

Disclaimer: The University of Fiji reserves the rights to amend the above Programmes List.

Future Ready
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 15 NEWS OCTOBER , 2022

Unifiji awards young entrepreneurs

Zareena Bi

Innovation and idea generation in the

business world is limitless but motivation
makes these innovative ideas fruitful.
The University of Fiji recently awarded
six innovative entrepreneurs at their Saweni
Campus through their School of Business and
Economics, Small Business Idea Competition
Awards 2022.
The awards sponsored by Sun Insurance
and Promax had two categories, adult and
high school students which attracted 66
submissions throughout Fiji.
During the awards University of Fiji Vice
Chancellor Professor Shaista Shameem
informed that this is the most innovative
project that the University has embarked on.
“The university’s strategic plan ensured that
students acquired soft skills instead of just
qualifications such as degrees.
“Running a business or being in an
organization or working for a particular
employer is more than just having an excellent
A plus degree or even an A degree, it’s
important to be able to communicate well.
“We often have wonderful business ideas
but it is not just about starting and running a
business but it should also be about sustaining
a business as well.”
Winners of the Unifiji Small Business Idea Competition Awards 2022 with the university Vice Chacellor Prof Shameem, staff and sponsors
Meanwhile, Dean of school of Business
and Economics Dr. Amradasa informed that the customers keep changing so there is a The winner in the adult category was the Kumar of Swami Vivekananda College
community engagement is one of the strategies need to be vigilant about what the customers, University of the South Pacific Bachelor of Nadi
of UniFiji’s strategic plan and it has been seen society and the market needs. The Dean further Science student Saakshi Ashlyn Goundar (Tails of Joy – Pet care services), first runner
that after the Covid 19 pandemic people are advised students to establish innovation clubs (Elegant Bags Fiji), first runner up was Simran up was Ivan Grant Alfred of Xavier College
ready to start new business ideas so this was at their schools and promised to support this Kamal (Art Cart-Art Gallery) and the second Ba (Alfred’s Consultancy Services) and the
a good opportunity to start this competition start up, as this will help them learn how they runner up was Ranjani Devi (New Bloom second runner up was Hemakshi Anjali Pillay
nationally. can operate their own businesses, run their Flower Business, Labasa). of Xavier College Ba (Virtual Event Planner).
He advised the awardees to keep innovating own finances and make their future much In the secondary school category the
and thinking about new ideas as the taste of better. winning submission was by Shreya Shivashna

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

16 DIWALI SWEET RECIPES OCTOBER, 2022

Gulab Jamun Peda

Ingredients: Ingredients
1. 1 tin Condensed milk 1. Powdered Milk 500g
2. Elachi 1 tsp 2. 1 tinned Condensed milk
3. Jaifar 1/4 tsp 3. Powdered Elachi 1 tbsp
4. Self raising Flour 3 cups 4. PowdredJaifar (nutmeg) 1/4 tsp
5. Butter/Ghee 5. Icing Sugar 1/2 cup
6. Sugar 2 cups 6. Ghee/Butter 2 tbsp
7. Water 4 cups Method:
8. Oil to fry 1. Pour Condensed Milk in a basin.
9. Vanilla 1 drop 2. Add Nutmeg, Elachi and butter to condense milk and stirr well.
Method: 3. Add icing sugar and mix well again.
1. Ground the elachi and jaifar, make it into powder. 4. Sprinkle milk powder and mix till you can make a hard dough.
2. Sieve the flour in a bowl. 5. Mix the dough well and make many small round doughs, the size of a coin.
3. Melt the butter or ghee to be used and cool it. 6. Put it in a container and store in fridge.
4. Open the condensed milk can and pour the content in a clean empty bowl. 7. Serve
5. Add the powdered elachi, jaifar and vanilla to the condensed milk.
6. Add the melted ghee to the condensed milk.
7. Use a spoon to mix the ingredients added to condensed milk.
8. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and mix well. Repeat this process till the dough
Murku
Ingredients:
is stiff 1. Flour
enough to be kneaded. 2. Jeera
9. Knead the dough well (you can also use a few drops of ghee if needed). 3. Roasted Jeera Powder
10. Pour sugar and water in a pan and boil it for 15 to 20 minutes over medium heat 4. Oil
to make 5. Salt
syrup (bubbles will form while boiling). 6. Chillies
11. Take small pieces of dough and make round long shaped gulabjamun with your 7. Garlic
hands 8. Water
(approximately 1/2 cm wide and 3 cm long). Method:
12. Heat oil and fry the gulabjamun on medium heat till golden brown. 1. Sieve flour.
2. Tie the sieved flour in a clean thin cloth
and steam it for 15 minutes.
3. When it’s steamed, cool it and put it in a
basin, pound it and sieve again.
4. Add Jeera, Jeera powder, salt, Chillies,
garlic and mix well.
5. Add water and make dough.
6. Stuff the dough in murku maker.
7. Heat oil and pour the dough through
murku maker in circular motion.
8. Fry this till light brown.
9. Ready to serve

SEIHNA
Ingredients :
10 taro leaves (washed)
1/2 cup uradh dhal (soaked overnight)
1/2 onion (optional)
Juice of 1 lime
3 chillies
3 cloves garlic
1 tspn. salt
water, estimate
Method :
- Grind dhal
- Add lime juice and salt
- Make a paste of garlic, onion
- and chillies and add to ground dhal
- Add some water to make it moist, like a paste
- Smear dhal paste on the wrong side of a taro leaf.
- Take another leaf, put paste on and place the second leaf on top of the
first one. Repeat spreading the paste on every single leaf until about 5
leaves are done
- Roll up tightly, plastering loose ends with the dhal paste
- Tie with a string and steam for about 30 to 40 minutes
- Remove string, cut into 1/2 inch slices and deep fry in oil a couple of
minutes on each side or until slightly golden in colour.
Note: Serve with any chutney.
It can also be served without frying.
Can be coated with rice flour and then fried.

RASGULLA

Ingredients:
1 packet powdered milk, ¾ cup self raising flour Elachi 2 tbsp , Jaifar 1 tbsp, Dahi/Yoghurt
1/2 cup 2 tbsp Ghee, 3 tbsp Semolina/Suji, 3/4 Cup Liquid Milk , Oil to fry, 2 tbsp ghee (extra),
Sugar 5cups, Water 4 cups
Method :
Pour the powdered milk, flour, suji, elachi & ghee in a bowl and mix well. Pour yoghurt and
milk and make dough. (dough will be extra soft at this stage) Cover and keep dough aside for
half an hour for suji to rise and dough to become of right consistency. Make balls, use the
(extra)
ghee in this step. In low heat fry the balls till brown. Pour water and sugar in a pot and boil
to make syrup. Add the balls in the syrup. Store it in a cooler and serve cold..

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 17 DIWALI SWEET RECIPES OCTOBER, 2022

Besan Ladoo CHOCOLATE COCONUT BALLS

Ingredients :
Ingredients: • 1 packet (250g) of milk arrow
1. ChannaBesan or Pea Besan (Gram Flour) root biscuits
2. Sugar • 1/3 cup (40g) of cocoa powder
3. Food Color (Red and Green) • 1/2 cup (45g) of desiccated coco
4. Elachee nut (plus a little extra for rolling
5. Jaifar the alls in)
6. Oil/Ghee to fry • 1 tin (395g) of condensed milk
7. Powdered Milk Method
8. Water • Crush the biscuits and place into a mixing bowl
Method: • Add cocoa and coconut, stir together then add condensed milk
1. Pour the flour in a basin and add water to make a thick batter. • Take small amount of mixture and roll into a ball, then roll through
2. If you want in different colors than pour the batter in 3 different basin and add a few extra coconut
drops • Continue with the rest of the mixture, place the chocolate balls on a
of food colour to each and mix well. plate and chill in the fridge for 30 minutes.
3. Heat Oil or ghee and Pour the batter in drops using a perforated spoon.
4. Deep fry till light brown.
5. Break the bigger chunks into smaller pieces (You can lightly blend it).
6. Pour sugar in a pot and add water, boil this for approximately 15 minutes and make a 2
JALEBI to prevent dripping.
- Release over hot ghee in spirals.
string - Cook both sides on medium heat.
Ingredients:
consistency syrup. - Remove from ghee and transfer to warm
1 and a 1/2 cup self raising flour
7. When the syrup is luck warm temperature, add powdered milk, powdered elachee and syrup.
1 cup plain yoghurt
powdered - Let jalebies soak for a couple of minutes,
1 tblspn. vanilla essence
jaifar. - remove and serve.
1 tspn. food colouring
8. Pour this syrup mixture over the fried besan and make balls. 3 cardamon pods - crushed
water for batter
Barfi 2 cups ghee for frying
Ingredients: Syrup:
1. 1 pkt milk powder 2 cups water
2. elachi powder 1tsp 2 cups sugar
3. Jaifar powder 1/2 tsp Method:
4. Ghee 1/2 cup - Mix together flour, yoghurt
5. Liquid milk 1/2 cup - and cardamon in a dish.
6. 3 cups sugar - Add enough water to make a batter.
7. water 1/1/2 cup - Cover and set aside for 4 hours.- - Add vanilla
Method: and
1. In a bowl pour powdered milk, elachi, jaifar and ghee and mix well with hands. food colouring - to the batter, mix well.
2. Sprinkle liquid milk little by little and mix with a soft hand. Repeat this process. No - Make a syrup by boiling water and sugar.
lumpss should be formed. If lumps form, you will need to sieve it. - Warm up ghee.
3. Mix water and sugar ina a pot and boil till syrup is sticky. - Take a piping bag or a kitchen funnel
4. Pour the syrup in the powdered milk mixture and mix well and spread this on a tray. - and fill mixture in. Keep finger over funnel/
5. Make the square marks to cut it into pieces when it is still soft because it will be hard to bag end
cut when it is hard.
Masala Puri 3. Cover the dough and set aside for about 10
minutes
or more.
Ingredients
4. Divide the dough into about 40 equal parts,
• 1 cup all-purpose flour
and roll
• 1/2 cup fine suji (semolina)
them between your palms.
• 1 tsp salt
5. Roll the puries into 3 inch circles.
• 1/2 tsp jeera seed
6. Prick each puri with a fork in 3 to 4 places,
• 1/2 tsp ajwain seed
this will
• 1/8 tsp hing
prevent the puries not to puff while frying.
• 1 tsp red chili flakes
7. Heat the oil in a frying pan on medium heat.
• 2 Tbsp oil
8. The frying pan should have about 1 inch
• 1/2 cup water
of oil. To
• Also need oil to fry
check if the oil is ready, put a small piece of
Method
dough
1. In a bowl mix all the dry ingredients
in the oil. The dough should make the oil siz-
all-purpose
zle and
flour, suji, Salt, jeera seeds, ajwain seeds,
come up slowly.
hing, and
9. Fry few puries at a time, make sure to place
red chili flakes.
just
2. Add oil to the flour mix and rub with your
enough puries to cover the oil. Fry them until
fingers to
both
mix it well. Add the water little at a time,
sides are a light golden-brown. Take them out
making into
over
a firm dough.

COCONUT ICE
Ingredients
250g Sweetened Condensed Milk
250g Golden Icing Sugar (sifted)
200g Desiccated Coconut
Method
1. Mix together the condensed milk, icing sugar and desiccated coconut in
a large bowl.
2. Break small pieces of the dough and cut into square shapes.
3. Dust with desiccated coconut.
4. These will keep for up to a month at least, if stored in an airtight container

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 18 AGRICULTURE OCTOBER, 2022

Mini Agriculture Show a success

Singh overwhelmed
with East West Seeds

Bilalevu, Sigatoka farmer Binnu Singh (Pictured) is happy to have

School students get first-hand information on East West Seeds during the Mini Agriculture Show in Nacocolevu, Singh, for the first time has tried out watermelon and is already
Sigatoka. Photos: Seeds Company of Fiji.
The Mini Agriculture Show proved to be a success for the promotion and advocacy of East West Seeds.
This year’s Mini Agriculture Show was held at Nacocolevu, Sigatoka on September 22.
Notable dignitaries were part of the event. The chief guest was OIC Economic Planning & Statistics Ms. Alitana
Mua.
High Commissioner of India to the Republic of Fiji Shri Palaniswami Subramaniam Karthikeyan and Minister for
Agriculture, Waterways and Environment Dr Mahendra Reddy also delivered their messages.
H.E. Karthigeyan and Hon. Reddy toured the booths to see the exhibited agriculture machinery including the East
West Seeds booth.
East West Seeds sincerely thank the Ministry of Agriculture for the invitation to be part of this year’s Mini Agri-
culture show and Agriculture Machinery exhibition in Nacocolevu Sigatoka.
In a statement they said, “As a seed company, Airavata Agriculture is honoured and privileged to be part of the
process of shaping the Fiji’s economy through the agriculture sector.
“We are committed to our farmers by bringing the best quality seeds to the market and we also reaffirm this com-
mitment through the work of our extension services.
Our team would like to thank our east west seeds star farmers, exporters, backyard farmers, students and members
of the public who came through our booth.
We look forward to working with relevant stakeholders and participating in agriculture shows in the new financial
year.”
chosen East West Seeds on his farm.
impressed.
“I have planted this Sayda watermelon for the first time and I want
to see the performance. I usually plant farmers giant. At the moment it
is good and currently the fruits are raw.
“The germination and fruiting is really overwhelming. The plants
are healthy but I can only conclude later after harvesting and post
harvesting,” Singh said.
He said his target is to harvest 1 tonne of melons per packet.
“I do not have any pesticide issues as I’m spraying on a regular
timely basis.
“I have placed salon screen underneath plants to avoid weeds and
have healthy plants and melons.
“I also planted sweet corn and I observed it was good so this year I
thought to try watermelon seeds from KKs Hardware.”
Singh has challenged farmers to use the best seeds available and
avoid too much weeds.
“Anyone can do farming but you have to take responsibility to spray
on time and keep the farm clean. Spray once a week and rotate the
chemicals commonly.”

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 19 NEWS OCTOBER , 2022

Laxmi
Punjas launches Solar Power energy drink Fiji’s Favourite Savouries

Taste our delicious range of Mix Bhuja, Potato Chevada, Corn Chevada, Dhal Moot,
Rice Bhuja, Hot Mix Bhuja, Sao, and Fried Chana

Punjas Group Marketing Manager Gopal Jadhav (3rd from left) with other senior staff
during the launch of the Solar Power Energy Drink in Fiji. Photo: Sanjay Goundar

Zareena Bi

Punjas has ventured into the energy drink market by introducing the Solar Power energy drink
with a grand launch on 29 September.
The drink has been sourced from Greece and Fiji is now the third market where this is avail-
able with the other market being Singapore.
During the launch Punjas group marketing manager Gopal Jadhav stressed that Solar Power’s
campaign is titled “Good Energy Only”, which is a play on the fact that unlike most energy
drinks in the market, it uses all-natural ingredients.
“In a market dominated by giants, the brand aims to carve out its own niche by appealing to
people by providing a healthier, natural alternative to choose from as it has ingredients from
natural sources and it gives a refreshing boost to everyday consumers.
“We have seen a growing demand for functional beverages within Asia Pacific and consumers
are seeking alternative beverages that offer health benefits beyond basic nutritional functions.
“Solar Power aims to complement the energy drink category and targets working adults, ter-
tiary students and parents and basically to target Fijians when they need energy the most for
example, late-night gaming or watching soccer or rugby, in between long video calls, and when
running after kids.”
Jadhav added that after the Covid 19 pandemic consumer trends shows that there is a demand
for vitamin and immune boosting products and this is a functional drink which means unlike
other energy boosting drinks it can be used on multiple occasions during the day.
“The concept comes from the insight that most people associate energy drinks with moments
of exhilaration, adventure and high impact activities. P.O Box 7557, Saweni Lautoka, Fiji Islands Sundresan Goundar (Director)
“But sometimes, consumers need a re-charge of energy even in everyday scenarios and mo- Phone / Fax: 6282877 Mobile: 9949140 / 9704566
ments. Email: laxmisnacks@yahoo.com
“And what better way, than an energy drink that does that and is made from natural sources.”

GOUNDER’S CURRY HOUSE (Formerly known as Chandu’s Town End Restaurant)

Fully Air Conditioned newly renovated restaurant now open
Specialised in: Indian, Fijian, European & Chinese dishes
We wish all our Valued Customers, Friends & Families a Blessed Festival of Deepawali & a Progressive New Year

Location: 15 Tukani Street P.O Box 4240, Lautoka, Fiji Phone: 666 5877 Mobile: 9914 974

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 20
Cash-Strapped Pakistan Struggles to Keep China Happy
It has promised to pay $200 million to four Chinese power producers but that
is just a fraction of the money owed to China.
The Pakistani Government is immensely struggling to make
payments to China’s independent power producers. Photo: Supplied
By Umair Jamal
The Diplomat
The Pakistani government has once again promised to start making
payments to China’s independent power producers (IPPs) set up under
the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). It has also announced
the finalization of a monthly procedure to make regular payments to
the Chinese investors working in Pakistan’s energy sector.
In the first phase, Pakistan has promised to pay $200 million to four
Chinese power producers to save them from default. It will make the
payments in local currency in an effort to put minimum pressure on
the Pakistani rupee. However, the payment, if made in the coming
days, would only cover a fraction of the payments that Pakistan owes
Chinese firms. It is estimated that Pakistan has to pay around $1.07
billion to 12
This is not the first time that Pakistan has promised to clear dues
owed to China’s power producers. In the past, the country has missed
a number of payment deadlines, resulting in Chinese investors
Collins 2023 Diaries
now available
Elegant range of Shields & Trophies
Check instore for our widest range
of kids recreational products
We wish all our Customer, Friends & Families a
Happy Diwali & a Prosperous New Year
CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
INTERNATIONAL NEWS
refusing to start new projects or complete the existing ones as per the
scheduled deadlines.
A government official told The Diplomat on condition of
anonymity that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was eager to change
this impression. “Sharif wants the Chinese leadership to know that he
is the guy who can deliver on Beijing’s needs,” he said. It is pertinent
to mention here that Sharif is scheduled to visit China later this year,
when he may have to face questions from the Chinese regarding
pending payments to China’s IPPS and other deals under the CPEC.
Already, China is frustrated over Pakistan’s inability to complete
CPEC projects. Pakistan has only completed three CPEC projects
in Gwadar as “one-dozen projects costing nearly USD 2 billion
remain unfinished including water supply and electricity provision,”
according to the recent CPEC Authority report.
A move that could further irk Beijing is the Sharif government’s
decision to abolish the CPEC Authority, a body that made all CPEC-
related decisions. The current government, which is headed by the
Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), maintains that its decision
will help in fast-tracking CPEC-related projects. The move alongside
the ongoing political and financial crisis is complicating Pakistan’s
ties with China.
One of the reasons for Pakistan’s inability to pay Chinese companies
is that Islamabad does not have the money to make hefty payments.
Moreover, Pakistan’s energy-related deals with China are under the
scrutiny of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
As per one report, the IMF wants Pakistan to negotiate with the
Chinese IPPs to get better deals on debt restructuring of CPEC power
plants. Pakistan has assured the IMF that it will “strive to reduce
capacity payments, as we pay the arrears, either by renegotiating the
PPAs [Power Purchase Agreements] or by lengthening the duration
of bank loans.”
It is important to note here that IMF has, for years, demanded that
Pakistan should manage its CPEC related outflows.
For instance, in 2016, the IMF warned that repayment obligations
on CPEC-related projects will rise exponentially after 2021. The fund
had alerted that repayments and profit return on Chinese investments,
“could reach about 0.4 per cent of GDP per year over the longer run.”
ELECTRICAL & INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES LTD
Lighten up this Diwali with Neutech
FUTURE DIRECTOR Shop 3 / 7 Nede Street, Lautoka. P. O .Box 3298, Lautoka.
Ph: (679) 666 4415 Fax: (679)666 4755
OCTOBER, 2022
India ready to
collaborate with
Fiji
Zareena Bi
India’s Minister for State Home Affairs,
Rai Shri Nityanand commended Fiji and
assured his counterpart, Minister for Rural
and Maritime Development, Inia Seruiratu
that India stands ready to collaborate with Fiji,
including in areas of early warning systems
and technology exchange.
The two leaders met to jointly discuss their
work in the disaster space along the margins
of the Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on
Disaster Risk Reduction in late September
Brisbane, Australia.
The leaders discussed opportunities available
for capacity building of the Ministry’s staff
members.
During the meeting, Minister Seruiratu
acknowledged India’s support for the
provision of COVID-19 vaccines, the donation
of agriculture seeds after recent disasters, and
the military ties between the two countries,
especially with the arrival of the Indian Naval
vessel to Fiji in September.
He also emphasised the need for
collaboration and strengthening ties with
India in risk-informed development areas and
disaster risk reduction programmes as well as
best practices.
Seruiratu also highlighted the need for
partnerships between Government and donor
partners.
Mobile: 999 9136/ 999 9455
21 DIWALI SPECIAL COVERAGE OCTOBER, 2022

National Scouts Commissioner , Fiji Scouts International Commissioner, Asia

Pacific Regional Core Team Member Mr. Kailash Pillay
May the lamps of Diwali brighten your life and Rangoli
add more hues to your life. Have a Happy Diwali! Wish you
all a very very HAPPY DIWALI and hope that every person
transforms from the darkness to happiness. Let’s celebrate
the festival in the true sense by spreading joy and light up
the world of others. Wish you a very Happy Diwali! May
the festival of lights be the harbinger of joy and prosperity.
Diwali’s holy occasion is here; the atmosphere is filled with
the spirit of joy and love. Here’s hoping this festival of lights
brings your way bright sparkles of contentment that stay with
you through the days ahead. Diwali, the festival of distinctive
significance, the festival of lights and the festival of happi-
ness is here again to celebrate with great grandeur and excite-
ment. Lakshmi Ganesh Puja, lighting home, firing crackers
and surprising loved ones with gifts are the main highlights
of the festival. But despite all this Diwali is the excellent time
for the family get-together. People residing in any part of the
country, get down to hometown to celebrate the cheerful fes-
tival of Diwali with family members, friends as well as close
and dear ones. Conveying love and greetings to near and dear
ones with Happy Diwali Messages is also the important part
of Diwali celebration.
On this Diwali when you will be celebrating the festival
with full-on excitement and cheers, just don’t miss to con-
vey your heartwarming Diwali Wishes to your near and dear
ones. It is the way, you will be making your loved ones feel
loved, cared and happy. Thus, to add more fun and happiness
in the festival of Diwali, let me also wish you with hearty and
impressive Diwali Messages from Fiji Scouts Association.
Around the world Scouts are engaged in local efforts to
build a lasting culture of peace and dialogue. From small ac-
tions to large community service projects, young people are
tackling local issues, responding to natural disasters, leading
peace-building activities, standing up for gender equality,
working to make refugees feel welcome and driving mean-
ingful progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs), and more! Every Scout is a Messenger of Peace.
Messengers of Peace is a flagship initiative of World Scout-
ing which inspires Scouts around the world to take action in
their communities by contributing to peace and sustainable
development. Since 2010, Messengers of Peace has involved
nearly all 172 National Scout Organizations, and inspired
more than 16 million projects and actions totaling over 2.3
billion hours of community service contributed towards the
SDGs. Through good turns and community service, Scouts
are making the world a better place by spreading a culture of
peace. The Messengers of Peace initiative encourages Scouts
to serve their communities and share their actions with others
to build a global network of service. The mission of Scouting
is to contribute to the education of young people, through a
value system based on the Scout Promise and Law to help
build a better world where people are self-fulfilled as individ-
uals and play a constructive role in society.
Likewise, on behalf of the Fiji Scouts Association and the
National Messengers of Peace Team, I wish the readers of
this City Star Newspaper 2022 Diwali Edition a joyful read-
ing and also wish all the readers a very HAPPY DEEPAWA-
LI. We are Scouts, and We are also Messengers of Peace. And
this is what we all want during this 2022 Week-long Diwali
Celebrations to spread peace around us.

Message from the USP Lautoka Campus Director, Dr Pramila Devi

A Joyous and Blessed Diwali to All

Diwali is a festival of lights and it brings the spirit of joy, color, lights,
sharing, a new beginning, and a new hope. It signifies the renewal of life
for Hindus. In Fiji, Diwali has traditionally been a festival for all. It has
acquired a deep social status in Fiji. During the week of Diwali, one sees
color, lights, sweets, sharing and forgiveness. It plays an important role
in a multicultural society like Fiji. Festival of lights promotes love, peace
and cooperation. It is love that embraces the diversities in multicultural
and multiethnic societies and makes possible peaceful co-existence of
diverse cultures.
On behalf of USP Lautoka Team, I convey our best wishes for a joyous
and blessed Diwali to all our students and their families. May the Divine
lights of this Diwali bring peace, prosperity, and good health to all.

Message from Then India Sanmarga Ikya (TISI)

HAPPY dIWALI Sangam Lautoka Branch President, Mr Ajay Kumar

From the Management & Staff

of D. Kalyan’s

Namaskaram everyone!

I on behalf of TISI Lautoka, would like to send my greetings on this auspicious oc-
casion of Diwali.
Diwali is not new celebration to us. It has been celebrated in Fiji for more than 140
years or so. But the difference we see every year is the commercialization of our reli-
gion.
Diwali is not about celebrating it with fire crackers, Diwali is not about celebrating it
with fancy lights, Diwali is not about showing our wealth. Diwali is all about good over
evil and what we can do to support or to make sure everyone celebrates Diwali in this
country including the unfortunate ones.
Sometimes we see there are people who cant put a meal for a big family on the table
but at the same time should also consider helping not during Diwali but everytime of
the year.
I take this time to wish everyone who can celebrate Diwali and also to all the people
who cannot celebrate for some reasons.
I, on behalf of the branch would like to pray to Almighty to give all the people of this
county strength and give us good mind so that we all can unite for the betterment of this
country.
And I would also like to pray to get us through these challenging times and for the
Almighty to show us ways to unite and celebrate Diwali in a very big and grand way.
Diwali is also about forgiving, its Lord Rama’s principle’s to forgive people who have
done harm to anyone and look forward to a better future and better Fiji for everyone.
Thank You and May God Bless Fiji.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 22 DIWALI SPECIAL COVERAGE OCTOBER, 2022

Message from Tertiary Scholarship and Loans

Services Chief Executive Officer Mr Hasmukh Lal

It is my immense pleasure to wish you, on behalf of the Tertiary Scholarships and Loans Ser-
vice (TSLS) family, on this joyous occasion of Diwali. May your life be filled with innumerable
moments of love and blessings! May the spirit of Diwali fill your days with cheer as you cele-
brate the auspicious and colorful festival of lights!
I would like to take this opportunity to express my heartful gratitude and sincere thanks to
our stakeholders for your continuous support throughout our journey over the years. I assure
you that TSLS will continue to offer you the best of services. TSLS has embarked on a transfor-
mative journey to improve quality of service we provide to our clients and stakeholders. TSLS
recently revised its strategic plan with the following focus areas;
• Customer Service Excellence
• Communication and Awareness
• ICT Transformation and
• Governance, Compliance and Risk Assurance
TSLS also revamped its current logo that depicts the core values of the organization and is
a symbol of inclusivity, knowledge and providing support to our valuable clients. We are now
accessible on social media platforms namely: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, TSLS
Viber Community Group, Tiktok, and Chat. This is to allow our stakeholders and clients to reach
TSLS through various mediums and request for key information and assistance.
Registrations for 2023 Fijian Scholarship Schemes (FSS) and Tertiary Education Loan
Schemes(TELS) will open in November this year. Potential applicants will be able to register
online using TSLS website and complete their applications using the new TSLS online applica-
tion system. The Fijian Government is making significant strides in creating a knowledge-based
economy and will be investing in 9200 scholarships and study loans for 2023 academic year.
The Community Awareness Book has eligibility criteria for all schemes.
I wish your family and you a safe and blissful Diwali!!!

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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 23 DIWALI SPECIAL COVERAGE OCTOBER, 2022

Diwali the Festival of Lights

Diwali, the Indian festival of lights, falls
on the day of ‘Amavasyaa’, when the moon
does not rise and there is darkness all around.
Light, being symbol of hope and positive
energy, indicates the victory of good over
evil. By spreading light in every corner of
our premises, we try to destroy the reign of
darkness, on the night of Diwali.
People decorate their premises with diyas,
electric bulbs and other decorative electric
lighting fixtures, to make their surroundings
filled with colorful light and to make it bright
and beautiful. Go through the following
lines to learn more about Diwali and its
significance. What Is Diwali Deepavali - the
very name of this festival reveals its meaning.
The festival is all about the lighting diyas.
Later the term ‘Deepawali’ became ‘Diwali’.
Deepawali or Diwali is also known as ‘the
festival of lights’, because on this day, people
illuminate their home and premises with
diyas and colorful lights. Celebrated usually
in the month of October or November, Diwali
bears significance in the Hindu culture as
well as among Buddhists, Sikhs and Jains.
The legends connected to the festival are
different for different religions. Importance
of Diwali Diwali is the Indian festival that
brings a series of festivals with it. One after
another, we get a chance to celebrate five A multiracial gathering of school head teachers during a special Diwali celebration held at Tilak High School in Lautoka last year.
ceremonious occasions.
The people of all age groups and classes with Diwali is a festival filled with spiritualism The first day of this festival begins with prayers to her to bless them with wealth and
equal zeal and enthusiasm celebrate Diwali and religious activities, such as worship Dhan Trayodashi’ or ‘Dhanteras’. After the prosperity.
throughout India. They put on new apparels of Goddess Lakshmi, worship of Lord Dhanvantari Trayodashi the second day The fourth day of Diwali is devoted
and participate in the various activities that Ganesha, worship of Ma Kali, worship of of Diwali is ‘Narak Chaturdashi’, which is to Govardhan Pooja (worship of Lord
are related to Diwali celebrations. Lord Chitragupta and worship of Govardhan popular as ‘Chhoti Diwali’. Govardhan Parvat).
It is a festival of celebrations such as Parvat. The third day of Diwali, which is also The fifth day of the Diwali is Bhai Dooj, the
lightings, crackers, cleanliness, colorful The celebration of the five-day long called ‘Badi Diwali’ is the main day of time to honor the brother-sister relationship.
rangoli making, social gatherings to festival, Diwali, begins on Aswayuja Bahula celebrations of the festival of Diwali. People Bhai Dooj is an important occasion which is
exchange greetings and sharing sweets with Chaturdashi and concludes on Kartika perform Lakshmi Pujan (worship of divine celebrated across the whole India with great
your loved ones. Shudha Vijaya. Goddess Lakshmi) on this day and offer enthusiasm and spirit.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 24 DIWALI SPECIAL COVERAGE OCTOBER , 2022

Diwali: Celebrating the Light of Wisdom

Young children enjoying the festival of lights Diwali to the fullest in Natabua Lautoka last
year. Photo: Sanjay Goundar

Diwali, the festival of lights, celebrates the victory of good over evil, light over darkness,
and knowledge over ignorance. Lamps are lit on this day not just to decorate homes, but also to
communicate a profound truth about life — when the darkness within is dispelled through the
light of wisdom; the good in us wins over the evil.
Diwali, in essence, is celebrated to kindle the light of wisdom in every heart, the light of life in
every home, and bring a smile on every face. Diwali is the shortened form of Deepavali, which
literally means rows of lamps. Life has many facets and stages to it. It is important that we throw
light on all of them, for if one aspect of our life is in darkness, we cannot express life in its
totality. The rows of lamps lit on Diwali remind us that every aspect of life needs our attention.
Every lamp that we light is symbolic of a good quality. There are good qualities in every human
being. Some have forbearance, some have love, strength, generosity; others have the ability to
unite people. When all these qualities are lit, awakened, that is Diwali. Don’t be satisfied with
lighting one lamp; light a thousand! If you have the value of service in you, don’t be satisfied
only with that. Light the lamp of wisdom in yourself and acquire knowledge. Awaken all the
facets of your being.
Another profound symbolism of Diwali is in lighting firecrackers. In life, you often become
like a firecracker, waiting to explode with your pent-up emotions, frustration and anger. When
you keep suppressing your emotions, cravings and aversions are bound to reach a point where
they explode. Bursting crackers is a psychological exercise from ancient times to release bottled-
up emotions. When you see an explosion outside, you feel similar sensations within as well.
Along with the explosion, there is a lot of light as well. When you let go of these suppressed
emotions, the light of knowledge dawns.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

25 IN MEMORIAM OCTOBER , 2022

Janki Goundar Late Mr Gabrial Subramani

Born: 21/07/1946
Died: 20/06/2002
Wife of Late Mr Gursamy Goundar &
mother of Coolman Refrigeration Direc-
tor
Vineet Goundar
Sadly missed this Deepawali by son
Vineet Goundar, Daughter –in- law Ra-
chael, grandson’s Raynal and Rahil
Late Nadesa
(Sada Signwriter)
Sadly missed this Diwali by wife Pus-
pha Wati, sons Ganesh, Nitesh, Sanjesh,
Jainesh, daughter in laws Sandhya,
Payal and grandchildren Gaurav, Dar-
shil, Shronit and Tayra. We pray to the
almighty to give eternal freedom to our
beloved father
& Late Mrs Kamla Mani
Of Vatamai Road, Lovu, Lautoka.
“Cheeti Na Koi Sandesh, Jane Wo
Kaun Sa Desh, Jaha Tum Chale Gaye”
You both are deeply remembered and
sadly missed by your Sons, Daughters,
son in –laws, grand-children, families
from Fiji and abroad.
Late Mrs Shyma Wati
Deeply missed this Deepawali by hus-
band Ashok Kumar, sons Raynil and
Saynil Kumar, only daughter Sangee-
ta, daughter-in-law Kavita Kumar and
only grandson Arush Kumar. Your
presence will be always missed in our
family and we pray for your soul to al-
ways rest in peace.

Late Mrs Puspa Wati

Born: 01/11/1982
Called to Eternal Rest: 02/04/1992
In loving memory of Miss Ashika Devi
Singh, daughter of Late Mr. Prem Singh of
Vitogo, Lautoka.
Sadly missed this Diwali by mom Geeta,
Brother Ranil Singh and Sister Arti Singh.
We miss you.
May your Soul Rest in Peace.
Born: 08/08/1984
Born: 28/08/1955 Born: 09/03/1960
Called to Eternal Rest: 09/05/2010
Called to Eternal Rest: 20/07/2005 Called to Rest: 26/09/2022
In loving memory of Mr. Pranil Prakash
In loving memory of Mr. Prem Singh of Beloved wife, Mother, Mother in Law
Singh, son of Late Mr. Prem Singh of Vi-
Vitogo, Lautoka, son of Late Mr. and Mrs. and Grandmother.
togo, Lautoka.
Bhagwati Singh. Sadly missed this Diwali by husband
Sadly missed during this Diwali by mom
Sadly missed during this Diwali by wife Mr. Sada Siwan Padhyachi, daugh-
Geeta, Brother Ranil Singh and Sister Arti
Geeta, son Ranil Singh and daughter Arti ter Sheetal from Canada, son Ronald,
Singh.
Singh. daughter in law Manisha and from fami-
We miss you.
We miss you. ly members from Fiji and abroad.
May your Soul Rest in Peace.
May your Soul Rest in Peace.

Late Mr Narayan Nagaiya & Mrs Latchmamma

Sadly missed this Diwali by Eldest son Vijay Gounder,
Daughter –in-law Roselyn Gounder, daughter Saloch-
na Devi, son-in-law Sri Nivasan Mani, son Rajesh
Goundar, daughter-in-law Sheetal Goundar, son Sanjay
Goundar, daughter-in-law Ashika and grandchildren
Krishan, Krishneel, Shivneel, Sheetal, Kunaal, Vineel,
Saakshi and Anshil. We pray to the Almighty that their
soul finds eternal freedom and their blessings remain
upon their children and grandchildren always.
Sanjay Ritesh Padhyachi
Karam Singh (of Lauwaki Settlement Lautoka)
Sadly missed and remembered on
Died: 22 December 2014
this Diwali by Father Mr Sada Siwan
It has been eight-years since you left
Padhyachi, two lovely daughters Rani
us. Our silent tears flow but we have
and Sonali, sister Sheetal from Canada,
your pictures and memories in our
brother Ronald and sister-in-law
heart. Love and missed by all families
Manisha and from family and friends
and friends in Fiji and abroad.
from Fiji and abroad.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 26 SPORTS OCTOBER , 2022

Historic year for Fiji Secondary School football

The gallant Xavier College boys and girls soccer teams after winning all titles in the 2022 Digicel Fiji Secondary Schools soccer championship at Lautoka’s Churchill Park.

Maika Kasami
Ba’s Xavier College created a new piece of history when
they walked away with all titles on offer in the Digicel Fiji Sec-
ondary School Football Association championship at Churchill
Park on September 30.
The Namosau based school claimed the Under 15, U17, U19
and Open girl’s grade titles.
According to the FSSFA executives this was the first time
ever that such a record has been achieved by a particular school
by winning all the age group titles in a single tournament.
This record will be very hard to emulate and XC has laid
down the challenge for others to try and achieve.
“It was three wonderful days of football and three hard days
of football,” said FSSFA president Aminesh Ram.
“Without Digicel, our major sponsor, we wouldn’t have been
here today. As their slogan says ‘better together’, definitely we
are better together, and I would also like to thank Fiji FA and
LCC (Lautoka City Council) for their support in making this
year’s tournament a grand success.”
Digicel Regional Marketing Manager Satish Narain congrat-
ulated XC for their wonderful achievement adding the future is
bright for soccer in the country.
“I’m very impressed with what I saw.
“It has been a historic year for our nation as we’ve recovered
from COVID19. It not only rocked Fiji but the entire world.
It’s how we’ve joined hands to combat the virus so that we
could enjoy watching football once again at Stadiums with
fans cheering and our youths participating, displaying talents,
showing their class, “Narain said.
“This is also historic because this is the first time Digicel has
sponsored Secondary School football and also historic because
it’s the first time Xavier College has become the first school to
make a clean sweep of all titles.”
Next year’s edition of the Fiji Secondary School Football
tournament will be played up North at Subrail Park in Labasa.
Finals result: U15- Xavier 4-3 Vashist Muni College, U17-
Xavier 1-0 Korovuto College, Girls Open category- Xavier 4-1
Vunimono Secondary, U19- Xavier 1-0 Labasa Muslim.

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA

 27 SPORTS OCTOBER , 2022

Rugby Festival on five values

The Lautoka Central Under 9 rugby side pictured after playing one of their matches during The Vitogo District School was out in full force during the Rugby Festival age group
the Rugby Festival in Lautoka. competition at the Central School grounds. Photos: Sanjay Goundar.

Maika Kasami
The Lautoka Primary School Rugby Festival has been hailed
as a huge success as players and parents alike are now better
equipped with the five-principle values.
The six-week long rugby festival organised by the Lautoka
Primary School Rugby Association (LPSRA) ended on
September 24 at the Lautoka Central School grounds with the
prize presentation to the winners.
The five values were RESPECT, DISCIPLINE,
SOLIDARITY, INTEGRITY and FUN.
LPSRA treasurer Oripa Lee said the rugby festival acted as a
tool to instil these codes of conduct on their players.
“In our festival, we are moulding our players around our core
values of rugby. We are trying to instill in our children these
values so that they learn rugby and at the same time know how
to portray the values as well.
“We do not want them to be rowdy and violent players, so
the main aim for this festival is to upgrade the skill in rugby
for the children, the way they are coached from school and for
them to have this festival to display their skills,” Ms. Lee said.
She said they have seen changes in the way players carry
themselves on and off the field.
“Before the festival kicked off we had already made an
awareness in all schools for them to advocate to their children
of being respectful on and off the field. And we have received
a lot of positive feedback as well from parents, teachers and
by the organisation on how they saw the children’s behaviour.
“The parents now hold on to their comments and carry it out
in the right channel and the right way, unlike before.
“So, we offered points to the teams that portrayed these
values and our Shields were named after the five-values,” Ms.
Lee added.
This year’s tournament had three-categories- Vesi (Boys),
Yasi (Indo-Fijians) and Rosi (Girls).
Under 9, U10, U11, U12, U13 and U14 grades were played
in the Vesi category, Yasi had the U12 and U14 while Rosi
included U10, U12 and U14 categories.
She clarified that LPSRA was not linked to Lautoka Rugby
Union but had the blessings of the parent body Fiji Rugby
Union to whom they sent their reports to.
“And the reps from FRU are always aware of our programme
and we do not have a link to LRU.”
Ms. Lee thanked the volunteers and officials who have
devoted their time to assist in the staging of the rugby festival
despite odds stacked against them.
“One of the motto is the safety of our players that is our
utmost priority.”

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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 28 SPORTS OCTOBER , 2022

Tuwai shares experience at Tanoa Fun Day

The Tanoa Group staff pictured with chief guest Jerry Tuwai before the start of their Sports Fun Day at Tanoa International Hotel in Nadi on October 1. Photo: Sanjay Goundar.

Maika Kasami
Fiji and the world’s most decorated sevens
player Jerry Tuwai says being accountable
and communicating in the right way will pave
the way for a successful life.
Tuwai on October 1 was chief guest at the
Tanoa International Hotel Nadi where all their
hotel chains under the Tanoa Hotel Group of
Reddy Group Company organised a Fun Day
of Sports activities.
Soccer, netball and volleyball were some of
the sports being played.
Tuwai, who won his first sevens world cup
title in Cape Town, South Africa recently,
kicked off proceedings by sharing three vital
messages to the close to 150 staff.
His messages were ‘Always do more, Ac-
countability and Communications’.
“These three things have shaped my life
and my playing career,” the nippy playmaker
pointed out.
“I haven’t worked in a hotel before but I’ve
worked in a team environment for more than
10 years.
“In the line of duty, you have to do a lot
of things. You always see us as rugby play-
ers, as champions, we’ve won lots of tour-
naments, we’ve lost lots as well, and we’ve
been praised, criticised at times but there are
something’s that some can see and others
can’t is the work we do behind the scene. That
is individual trainings, waking up really early
in the morning when everyone is fast asleep,
training in Sigatoka at the Dunes and when we
camp in Suva and that’s what I’ve learned to
do more by yourself that is something that will
help develop an individual in creating some-
thing new that will go for a long way.
“And always be accountable for what you
do. Always put your hands up if you’ve done
something wrong. It will create clear consen-
sus within you and will give you an experi-
ence for a lifetime.
“And finally, in my line of work when we
are defending our try-line we talk, communi-
cate and bond as a team as it will create aware-
ness and clarification in life.
“To always try to be good ambassadors and
do more in life and it will build a good com-
munity as a whole,” added Tuwai.
Tanoa Hotel Group General Manager Nar-
end Kumar said Tuwai is an iconic figure in
Fiji now adding it was an honour and pleasure
to have him as their chief guest in the Tanoa
Hotel Group Fun Day.

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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 29 SPORTS OCTOBER , 2022

LGC braces for major tournaments

Winning combination....Raymond Singh (right) and James Krishna (left) congratulated by

former bowling sensation Babu Khan (middle) during the Deans Gravel Supplies & Zains LGC executive members Pastor Pritam Singh (middle) and Raymond Singh with new junior
Supermarket 18-Hole 2-Men Stroke Ambrose event at Lautoka Golf Club on October 7. member Jeremiah Caleb Kumar (left) donating generously towards the WOWS Kids Foundation.

Maika Kasami
Lautoka Golf Club will be hosting major tournaments before
the end of the year apart from the weekly competitions.
And the weather has played a major part in deciding the ac-
tual dates for these tournaments.
LGC is eagerly awaiting to set the stage for the hosting of its
Pro-AM championship, the annual Lautoka Open, Club Cham-
pionship and Season Closing tourney.
The long spell of drought finally ended in the first week Oc-
tober when the heavens finally opened up.
This was not only beneficial to the farmers and home crop
owners but to LGC as well as this was long overdue for the
maintenance of the golf course.
LGC executive and chairman of trustees Raymond Singh
said the rain was a blessing for them.
Singh said stray dogs has also been a problem for them as
they have been damaging the greens.
“Finally, there were some rain and it was a blessing for us.
We need more of it as it will give more cushion to the fairways
and greens and then we can set the date for the major tourna-
ments that are yet to be played.
“Some of our greens need repairing as there are alot of patch-
es resulting from the damages done by stray dogs, so we need
to maintain it before any major tournament is held, “ Singh
said.
He has urged LGC members to spare some time in the after-
noons to help in repairing of greens and the course as a whole.
“I urge the members to lend a helping hand in any way pos-
sible in the afternoons as this is the only golf club in Fiji that is
owned by members.”
Meanwhile, Singh and the WOWS Kids Foundation contin-
ue to build a strong relationship as they fight to help the kids
with cancer.
On October 15, the launching of the WOW Kids Saqamoli
Tin collection was officially done at LGC by Laisa Raisamu of
the WOW Kids Foundation.
Close to $100 was raised even before the launch a week ear-
lier when members whole heartedly contributed towards the
worthy cause.
Singh had on September 3 personally donated $7000 to help
in the treatment of 73 Fijian children who are suffering from
childhood cancer.
WOW Kids team leader Mere Williams was moved by
Singh’s kind gesture every year adding these donations were
used for treatment care, medicines, transportation and monthly
groceries for children under their care.
“Raymond Singh gives from the heart and is a genuine
WOWS Kids Fiji ambassador who we can count on to bring
happiness to the lives of our children suffering from cancer.”

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CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA
 30 SPORTS OCTOBER, 2022

Natabua girls are rugby champs

Maika Kasami
The Natabua High School boys team in rugby and soccer fell
short in their quest for glory, but the rugby girls did not let that
disappointment hinder their performance in the final of the Fiji
Secondary School Rugby Union/Weetbix Raluve Championship at
Churchill Park on October 8.
Even the rainy weather failed to dampen their spirits as they
fought their way to record their maiden victory.
NHS were up against all odds having lost to Jasper Williams High
School earlier in the preliminary rounds in the western division
fixtures.
And they were put to some early pressure when Japser led 5-0 at
the break. The Drasa Avenue based school then came up with a big
second half effort to beat fellow westerners and neighbours JWHS
10-5 in the U18 grand final.
Two unconverted tries in the second half was enough to dispose
a stubborn Jasper side
Nippy half back Sereana Lee led the comeback with a try before
Ofa Lagonilakeba dived over for the winning try to seal the match.
In the semifinals, NHS defeated St. Bedes 12-7 at Nadi’s Prince
Charles Park to make the finals.
NHS spokeswoman and school teacher Laisani Danford said they
had come well prepared to do well in the final.
“We had prepared well heading for the final and we were hungry
to win it since we lost to Jasper earlier on, “ Mrs. Danford said.
And it was a fitting farewell gift for her as well as she leaves
with some fond memories before joining rival school in the sporting
arena Adi Cakobau School in Sawani in the final school term.
Together with the rugby win, NHS also celebrated its netball
triumph when they shared the spoils with ACS in the National
Netball U19 finals.
Meanwhile, Marist Brothers High School finally tasted victory
after 44 years when they edged Suva Grammar 9-8 in the Boys U18
Natabua High School Under 18 rep Ofa
final.
Lagonilakeba with her best player award at the
It was a tit for tat final in slippery conditions as the Red Fire flame
conclusion of their Weetbix Raluve Shield final.
kept on burning even after the full-time whistle.
Photo: Supplied

Western teams fail to make finals

Maika Kasami
Western football districts like Ba, Lautoka
and Nadi have etched their names on the roll
of honour the most number of times in local
tournaments.
But 2022 has been a bad year for all the
westerners as none of them made the finals
day. At Lawaqa Park earlier this year, Suva
and Labasa played the Digicel Fiji FACT final
with the Capital City side claiming the first
title on offer for the season. Ba and Lautoka
were bundled out in the semis.
Ba and Nadi failed to reach the finals during
the Punjas Battle of the Giants when they were
ousted by Labasa and Rewa respectively. The
Babasiga Lions went on to tame the Tigers to
clinch their fourth BOG title.
At the Courts IDC in Suva, the Boys in
Black were the lone western representative in
Despite going down to Suva in the final of the Courts IDC soccer tournament the Navua
the top four with top guns Lautoka and Nadi
team stole the hearts of many local soccer fans with their performance. Photo: Supplied
failing to make the cut.
Suva beat Rewa in the first semis 2-1 while
surprise package Navua edged Ba by the same
scoreline to make the IDC finals after 13 long
years. Suva and Navua booked a finals spot
and it was the first time the two southern
teams had met in an IDC final.
Navua looked a shadow of a side from their
previous outings as they were humbled 4-0 by
Suva who recorded their 14th IDC win ending
an eight year drought.
Navua, however went home $6000 rich-
er while Suva claimed $25,000 infront of its
home fans.
The Babs Khan coached side managed to
win two titles this year and were runners up in
the Digicel Premier League.

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32 OCTOBER , 2022

CITY STAR - THE COMMUNITY NEWSPAPER FROM LAUTOKA