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Fiji and English

I arrived in Fiji almost a month ago today. Ever since I landed here I felt like I'm stepping into a different province of Sri Lanka where people speak a different language. Other than that I do not notice much of a difference.Most of the time I'm asked how do you find Fiji. Always my answer would be, It's like I'm going to my cousin's house.


Fiji is not highly populated. It's nearly 800,000 people all together. But that includes native indians, Fijians, Koreans and Chinese, on top of that foreign workers like me from all around the world.

For me it's a great experience to get in touch with different lifestyle and people. Going out with friends, making new friends see the country a bit ,makes me feel good. I haven't been to any islands or haven't sailed on a cruise yet, but looking forward to it as my work gives me that opportunity. It is said that Fiji has more than 200 small beautiful islands on its name. It's worth coming here and spending some time with this great nature.


Fiji has a huge population of cats and dogs, but surprisingly they have never encountered any rabies cases.Fiji doesn't have predatory animals like tigers, lions, jackals, foxes, etc. Also, Fiji does not have venomous snakes. The biggest animal in Fiji would be a horse or a bull. It's shocking, right?


However, every Fijian have their own language and they also speak English. They can communicate in English no matter what age group they are in right now. Students are being taught English from the beginning of their school lives or maybe even before that. So unlike in Sri Lanka,people in Fiji have a good understanding of world culture. Fijians do not hesitate to talk with a foreigner, even a small child. I have experienced this incident when I was traveling on the bus , Fijians are very friendly with whites and they exchange their experiences quite naturally.


So what I learned during my stay in Fiji is start learning English as a language, not just for pass your ridiculous exam and teach my son good English while he is still young. Also practice one sport during my lifetime. Chose a sport which is my favorite and try to learn it and when time comes teach it to my children and let them learn the rest.


I do not believe teaching every single subject to the children would do any good now. Because knowledge is everywhere. Your child will decide which person they want to be in the future. But for that as parents we must provide them the tools they need. English, dedication, Stamina and courage.

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