PASS-CR scholar is gaining valuable insights into the challenges and successes of sustainable farming initiatives on Taveuni Island.
Academic Support Team Student Placement Coordinator Shivani Singh has been coordinating short work placements for our PASS-CR scholars as a key element of the Job Ready Program. In February 2024, Fiji National University Masters student Amelia Nadau, completed a work placement at Teitei Taveuni, an NGO formed by a group of Taveuni farmers with an interest in sustainable farming, soil regeneration, food security, conservation, and environmental awareness.. Amelia's Masters research examines how farmers' perceptions of climate change impact farm produce in Fiji's Sigatoka, Labasa, and Taveuni areas.
Amelia reports on her TeiTei Taveuni Work Placement Experience:
My recent work placement at Teitei Taveuni has been life-changing, as it has not only opened my eyes to the beauty and importance of sustainable farming practices but has also aligned perfectly with my passion for environmental stewardship. During my time there, I witnessed firsthand the positive impact that organizations like Teitei Taveuni can have on promoting food security, conservation, and environmental awareness within the community. Engaging in dialogues with local farmers allowed me to better understand the significance of regenerative agriculture practices in ensuring long-term food security and environmental conservation.
Attending the Breadfruit Festival at Tutu Rural Training Centre further exemplified the potential of traditional crops in enhancing livelihoods and nutrition for Pacific communities. The Breadfruit Festival at Tutu Rural Training Centre was a profound experience that illustrated how traditional crops, such as breadfruit, can enhance the well-being and nutrition of Pacific communities while simultaneously offering a solution to climate change impacts and food security challenges. Through these experiences, I gained valuable insights into the challenges and successes of sustainable farming initiatives on Taveuni Island.
The dedication and commitment of the Teitei Taveuni team served as an inspiration, motivating me to promote sustainable agricultural practices actively within my community. The main takeaways from this experience include:
recognizing the importance of community collaboration in sustainable farming,
understanding the value of traditional knowledge in preserving biodiversity, and
acknowledging the crucial role of education and awareness in fostering environmental sustainability.
This work placement has not only influenced my career aspirations but has also instilled in me a sense of responsibility to be a guardian of the environment and advocate for sustainable practices wherever I may find myself.
Please find out more about Amelia and her research here.