A highly successful University of Fiji Cultural Night was staged on Saturday 14th August. The Event was the first of its kind for the University. Due to its success, we now plan to make it an annual event in the University’s calendar. A major goal was to enrich students’ university life by showcasing different dance and song items which form part of Fiji’s Multicultural fabric. In addition, the cultural night gave a platform for gifted students to showcase their talents.

A performance was also staged on Friday afternoon, 13th August and was free for all staff and students. A group of 60 Pundit Vishnu Deo Memorial College students was also invited to enjoy the free show. Highlights of the Saturday evening were that we played to a full house, with some audience members having to stand at the back.

Several excellent items were provided by students in the Centre for Indigenous Studies Programme. Other highlights included a Gujarati dandiya rass dance, coordinated by staff member Hettal Ben, Polynesian dances and very popular Bollywood style Indian dances. The chairman of the Organising Committee Cliff Benson was assisted by the committee members Tito Isala (Registrar), Joji Uluinakauvadra (Director of CIS), Vijayta Singh (Hindi studies and also who was the MC), and student representatives, Lillian Mausio and Ronita Prasad. It is anticipated that the 2011 show will be a even bigger success, with a greater variety of items and performances.