Fiji School in Urdu: A Growing Cultural Initiative in the Northern Division

Urdu Language Competitions in Fiji's Northern Region

A recent educational event in Labasa, Fiji, has highlighted the increasing presence of Urdu language programs in schools across the northern region. The competition, jointly organized by the Macuata Muslim League Fiji and the Northern Urdu Workgroup, brings together students from various institutions to showcase their skills in Urdu poetry and public speaking. This year's event marked a significant milestone as it saw students from rural schools participate for the first time in such a structured academic format.

The competition is structured into primary and secondary divisions, allowing students at different academic levels to engage with the language and express themselves through performance. These events are designed not only to promote linguistic heritage but also to foster confidence in public expression among young learners. The inclusion of both poetry and oratory reflects a balanced approach to developing students’ communication abilities through traditional and modern forms of expression.

Siblings Excel in Urdu Performance Events

Two students from Labasa Muslim Primary School achieved top positions in their respective categories, demonstrating the impact of early exposure to language and cultural education. Julfa Noor, a Year Six student, won the nazam competition, which involves the recitation of traditional Urdu poetry. Her sister Azka Noor, a Year Eight student, secured first place in the oratory category, where students deliver speeches on social and moral themes.

Both sisters, originally from Delhi, India, attribute their success to consistent discipline and a strong foundation in language learning. Their father, who serves as the imam at Naseakula Mosque, and their teacher Zahid Afwaz Ali, played key roles in shaping their academic and cultural development. The family's relocation to Labasa over a decade ago provided a stable environment where Urdu remained a central part of their daily education and identity.

Themes of Faith and Daily Practice in Student Speeches

Azka Noor’s oratory presentation focused on the value of cleanliness as a religious and personal commitment. She explained that in Islamic teachings, cleanliness is not merely a physical act but a spiritual practice that reflects one’s devotion to faith. By making cleanliness a daily habit, individuals cultivate greater self-awareness and responsibility in their actions.

Her speech emphasized that when people internalize such values, societal issues like pollution and neglect diminish. The connection between personal conduct and community well-being was a key point in her argument. This approach illustrates how language competitions can serve as platforms for teaching broader social and ethical concepts beyond the classroom.

Expansion of Urdu Education in Rural Schools

The event included students from 14 schools across the Northern Division, many of which are located in remote or rural areas. This broad participation underscores efforts to ensure equitable access to cultural and linguistic education. Prior to this competition, such programs were often limited to urban centers, making rural students less likely to engage with Urdu-based activities.

The inclusion of rural schools reflects a broader initiative to bridge educational gaps and promote cultural diversity. By involving students from diverse geographic locations, the competition fosters a sense of unity and shared heritage among participants, regardless of their school or community background.

Longstanding Commitment to Language Preservation

Since 1978, the Macuata Muslim League Fiji has been organizing Urdu language events to preserve the language among young learners. These activities are particularly important in a multicultural society where many students face pressure to adopt dominant national languages.

The organization credits the Ministry of Education for allowing Urdu to be formally taught in schools, which has enabled students to maintain their mother tongue. This policy support has been instrumental in sustaining cultural identity and linguistic diversity within Fiji’s educational framework.

Recognition of Student Achievements and Public Speaking Skills

In addition to the primary division, secondary students also performed well. Ubaidullah Ahmed, a Year 10 student from Valebasoga Secondary School, won the nazam category, while Shadia Bi, a Year 13 student from Seaqaqa Central College, took first place in the oratory competition.

These achievements highlight the growing maturity of student engagement with language and performance. The success of students at the secondary level suggests that early exposure to such programs leads to long-term development in communication and critical thinking abilities.

Cultural and Educational Impact of the Competition

Beyond individual awards, the competition serves as a cultural bridge between India and Fiji, reinforcing ties between communities through shared linguistic roots. It also provides students with a platform to explore their identity and express themselves confidently in a public setting.

The event encourages schools to integrate Urdu into their curricula and promotes inter-school collaboration. By celebrating student excellence, it inspires others to pursue similar opportunities, creating a ripple effect in educational practices throughout the region.