Students plant at Tavua Town Childrens Park - Photo: Ioane Nawaikula
On Saturday, May 25th 2024, a heartwarming scene unfolded at Tavua Children's Park as a group of children from Korewere in Vatukoula, accompanied by their dedicated teacher, Mrs. Mariana Peckham from Marist Convent School in Vatukoula, eagerly awaited a day of tree planting. Armed with plants and fruit trees, the children were filled with excitement to be outdoors and to engage in the meaningful activity of enhancing their environment.
The recently renovated Tavua Children's Park, a project undertaken by the Tavua Town Council, provided the perfect backdrop for the day's activities. The park, which had been neglected for some years, now boasted freshly painted swings, seasaws, and other play equipment that beckoned the children to enjoy its revitalized spaces.
Amidst the joy and laughter, Mrs. Peckham, along with a few young members from the Youth Assemblies of Fiji (YAF) West, delved into discussions inspired by the Pope's call for the 'Care of our Common Home.' The group pondered on the significance of this call at individual, family, communal, and at a national level, reflecting on ways to address environmental challenges and promote stewardship of God's creations. They contemplated on strategies to reverse environmental damages, raise awareness, and instil a deep respect for nature, particularly among children and youths in the Tavua/Vatukoula area.
Eager to contribute to the cause, the children banded together to plant trees, symbolizing their commitment to safeguarding the environment. As they worked diligently, the hope of the Tavua Town Council was echoed by a spirited Marist Convent student, who expressed excitement for the trees to bear fruits such as kavika, tarawau, and avocado, providing sustenance, shade, and oxygen for all to enjoy.
In this heartening display of community engagement and environmental stewardship, the children of Korewere, guided by their teacher and inspired by the teachings of Laudato Si, embarked on a journey to nurture and protect our shared home, embodying the spirit of care and respect for God's creations.
Ioane Nawaikula is the JPIC Coordinator in Fiji.
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