βThe best time to teach children to care for the environment is while they are still young, because the habits they learn today will shape the Fiji of tomorrow.β
This was the message from the Minister for Environment and Climate Change, Hon. Lynda Tabuya, during a visit to Naikawaga Kindergarten School in Tailevu today, where she encouraged children, parents and teachers to work together in raising a generation that values education, respects others and cares for the environment.
The Minister presented the school with stationery, compost bins, compost buckets and gardening tools, making Naikawaga Kindergarten the first kindergarten in Fiji to receive a composting package from the Ministry.
The initiative is designed to introduce children to waste management, recycling and composting from an early age, helping them understand that protecting the environment begins with everyday actions.
Hon. Tabuya reminded the children that they should value their education, be kind to one another and always do the right thing, including disposing of rubbish responsibly and respecting their surroundings.
Speaking to parents, the Minister stressed that education begins at home. She encouraged families to teach children good manners, respect and responsibility, while also having honest conversations about the dangers of violence and drug abuse so they can make positive choices as they grow.
She said no child is too young to learn civic pride and environmental responsibility. By teaching children to compost, recycle and care for their surroundings today, they will grow into adults who inspire others to do the same.
Hon. Tabuya also challenged the children to become young environmental champions, encouraging them to remind their parents, grandparents and other adults to βdo the right thingβ whenever they see rubbish being thrown carelessly.
The visit reflects the Ministryβs commitment to building environmental stewardship from the ground up, recognising that lasting change begins with children and the values they carry into their homes, schools and communities.