Today the Minister for Education, Honourable Aseri Radrodro officially opened the 2025 Vodafone Fiji Secondary Schools Basketball Championship, addressing hundreds of students, teachers, and supporters.
The Honourable Minister highlighted the vital role of sports in education, calling it key to developing discipline, teamwork, and resilience in young people. He reminded students that success is not only about winning, but about character, friendships, and lifelong lessons learned through sport.
He acknowledged basketballβs deep roots in Fiji, noting how this championship has produced top athletes like Marques Whippy, Pita Sowakula, and Mikaelar Whippy, with schools like Marist Brothers, Yat Sen, Adi Cakobau, and Suva Grammar leading the way.
Welcoming the return of the tournament to Suva, the Minister acknowledged the strong revival of school sports after COVID-19 disruptions. He urged students to make healthy life choices, avoid harmful substances, and stay informed on issues like HIV/AIDS. βYour health, your choices, and your discipline will shape Fijiβs future,β he said.
Special thanks were extended to Vodafone Fiji, the major sponsor, as well as to all coaches, teachers, parents, and organisers for their dedication.
As the games begin during the school holidays, the Honourable Minister encouraged students to stay active, spend time with family, and return to school refreshed. He officially declared the championship open, wishing all teams a safe, respectful, and exciting tournament.
