The educational curriculum in Fiji needs a serious revision for young people to learn the values of compassion, integrity, advocacy for the public good and respect for others while studying subjects like English, Maths, Science and other traditional subjects at school.
This was highlighted by University of Fiji Vice Chancellor, Professor Shaista Shameem at the Arya Convention and 105th Annual General Meeting of the Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji.
Shameem says it is important to remember that the Sabha was the only community organisation in Fiji that offered education from pre-school all the way to University.
She says the Sabha's Gurukul Primary School at Saweni Lautoka was the first substantive school for the children of Girmitiyas.
Shameem says the human values that Gurukul taught were humanity, love, consideration and empathy which were offered to students simultaneously with subjects such as language, science, mathematics, humanities and arts.
She says the Gurukul system of education self-learning was emphasised, along with discipline and critical thinking.
Shameem says this unique combination in Gurukul made students mentally and physically fit and helped in personality development by increasing confidence, mindfulness and intellect.
