Wairuku Primary School in Rakiraki, where Fiji’s revered statesman Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna spent part of his early childhood education, today became the centre of national attention as it hosted the official launch of the 2026 Ratu Sukuna Day celebrations and opened a new library named in his honour.

The event marks the beginning of celebrations ahead of the public holiday tomorrow, May 29, with national commemorations set to take place in Lautoka City.

Minister for iTaukei Affairs Ifereimi Vasu, while officiating at the launch, said Wairuku Primary School played an important role in shaping the discipline, character and leadership qualities of one of Fiji’s most influential leaders.

He highlighted the significance of the school’s multicultural history, noting that the institution, then known as Verata Indian School, exposed young Ratu Sukuna to an environment where iTaukei and Indo-Fijian children learned together.

Minister Vasu said these early experiences helped deepen Ratu Sukuna’s understanding of Fiji’s diversity while strengthening his commitment to protecting iTaukei identity and promoting unity among all communities.

“Even great leaders once sat in small classrooms, learned their sums and practiced their English,” he told students.

He encouraged young people to dream big and use education as a pathway towards leadership and service to the nation.

The minister also officially opened the newly established Ratu Sukuna Library, describing it as an investment in the future of Fiji’s children.

“The library is a quiet place, but it can produce very powerful voices,” he said.

“It is in places like this that children learn to think clearly, speak confidently, write properly and understand the world beyond their village, province and country.”

The library project received support from the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs as part of its contribution towards the Ratu Sukuna Day 2026 celebrations and efforts to preserve the late statesman’s legacy.

Head of School Satya said the occasion marked a significant milestone for Wairuku Primary School, describing the library as more than just a building.

“It is the beginning of new opportunities for learning, growth and inspiration for our children,” he said.

Satya acknowledged the Ministry of iTaukei Affairs for providing building materials for the project and thanked teachers, parents, community members and partners who contributed towards making the initiative possible.

He said naming the facility after Ratu Sir Lala Sukuna was fitting given the statesman’s lifelong commitment to education, leadership and national development.

This year’s Ratu Sukuna Day celebrations carry the theme, “The Courage to Lead,” reflecting the values of service, humility, leadership and nation-building that defined the late statesman’s life.

The celebrations continue tomorrow with national events in Lautoka as Fiji honours the legacy of one of its founding leaders.