The Ministry of Agriculture and Waterways is poised to enhance its School Gardening Program in the upcoming 2025/2026 financial year, reinforcing its commitment to bolstering food and nutrition security across Fiji. This initiative is part of a strategic framework laid out in Thematic Area 8 of the 10-year Non-Sugar Agriculture Policy, aligning with the Strategic Development Plan’s goal of equipping students with agricultural skills that contribute to improved learning, health, and future livelihoods.
A notable highlight of the program is the success witnessed at Navukailagi District School, which has established a 10-box garden and nursery. Students there have not only engaged in growing produce but have also received practical training in climate-resilient farming techniques. Recently, the school celebrated its first harvest, underscoring the profound impact agricultural education can have on young learners.
This financial year, the program is set to be rolled out in 16 schools, with collaborative efforts between the Ministry and the Ministry of Education paving the way for a formal partnership with Savusavu Secondary School. This partnership aims to further expand the program’s reach and effectiveness.
Tomasi Tunabuna, Minister for Agriculture and Waterways, articulated the initiative’s broader significance, stating, “By integrating hands-on cultivation, nutrition literacy, and enterprise opportunities into the school curriculum, we are fostering a generation of youth committed to building healthier communities and sustainable livelihoods.” He emphasized that the School Gardening Program is a proven model for enhancing both food security and biodiversity within educational settings. As students learn to cultivate their own food, they gain essential life skills and a greater understanding of agricultural systems.
The Ministry is also encouraging NGOs, development partners, and the private sector to participate in this enriching initiative. Such collaboration is vital for scaling up school gardens, disseminating best practices, and advancing innovative, nutrition-focused education across the nation. Tunabuna envisions a future where, “As we cultivate these gardens, we are not just growing food; we are nurturing the future of our youth.”
This initiative reflects a broader movement in Fiji aimed at boosting local food production, reducing reliance on imports, and empowering the next generation of farmers through education and community engagement. The efforts foster a hopeful outlook for a sustainable agricultural future, contributing to the vision of a healthier, more resilient society in Fiji.