Vasemaca Alifereti

Fijian Language and Learning: the Status of Fijian Language As a Subject in Schools Vasemaca Alifereti

Fijian Language in schools is generally perceived as a subject for the academically weak and students would only opt to take it if there are no other alternatives. The study investigated the status of Fijian language as a subject in secondary schools in Fiji. The data collected shows a strong inherent desire for the adoption and recognition of the Fijian language in schools both as a compulsory subject of study and a medium of communication. There was strong condemnation of school rules which prohibited students from speaking in Fijian in the school. The study has proposed policy directions in line with the data collected and current literature. Consideration was also given to the multicultural and multilingual reality of Fiji's environment. The proposal not only address learning and achievement but also celebrate the uniqueness of each cultural group as well as Fiji's cultural diversity. This book would be very useful not only for teachers, administrators and language policy makers but most importantly for students and parents.