Author and historian Dr. Anurag Subramani recently highlighted the critical role of historical understanding during a presentation of his book, “The Fiji Times at 150: Imagining the Fijian Nation,” held at Lautoka’s Natabua High School. As an academic at the University of the South Pacific (USP), Dr. Subramani expressed his deep concern about the deficiency of historical knowledge among students, particularly in relation to significant global phenomena like colonialism. He advocated for a transformative educational approach, calling for critical engagement with history rather than traditional rote memorization.
With 15 years of teaching literature and history under his belt, Dr. Subramani noted that many students entering his classes were often unaware of essential historical events. A survey he conducted on local history textbooks revealed that they contained outdated and overly sanitized narratives, lacking robust discussions on more challenging subjects. He argued that education should focus on developing critical thinkers instead of merely fostering information collectors, comparing outdated teaching methods to the practices of antiquarians who accumulate historical facts without deeper comprehension.
Reflecting on his journey, Dr. Subramani credited influential educators like Professor Steven Ratuva for shaping his critical perspective on history. He encouraged his students to adopt a similar approach and stressed the significance of local narratives in understanding the Fijian identity. This emphasis on regional storytelling aligns with ongoing cultural movements in Fiji, which aim to preserve indigenous narratives and languages.
Dr. Subramani’s push for educational reform resonates with recent initiatives in Fiji aimed at enhancing the teaching of indigenous history and traditions. Notable figures like Ratu Wiliame Katonivere have underscored the importance of reintegrating cultural education into school curricula to instill a sense of pride in identity among the younger population.
By advocating for a departure from traditional memorization toward a more engaging discourse on history, Dr. Subramani continues to inspire future scholars and promote a deeper appreciation for Fiji’s rich cultural heritage. The hope is that by improving educational practices, Fijians will embrace their historical narratives, ultimately fostering a stronger collective identity and pride in their cultural legacies.