Scouting in Fiji creates Impact on Diversity and Inclusion

Fiji Scout Association has adapted diversity and inclusion to meet the evolving needs, expectations, and aspirations of youth in different social contexts over the past years.

At the Lautoka School for Special Education in Fiji,  over 100 students associated with disabilities such as physical impairments, down syndrome, autism spectrum disorder, vision impairments, and many more are actively engaged in Scouting activities.

Scouting is a part of the school’s extra-curricular activities.  Students with disabilities are taught Scouting skills and get to understand many aspects of their daily lives. The 1st Lautoka Special Stars Mission aims to contribute to children and youth education on fundamental values of dignity, solidarity, tolerance, respect, and equality to create a society that respects and promotes human rights.

Impact of Scouting at Lautoka School

Scouting has created a lot of excitement and motivation among students, helping them in diverse ways. Some of these are skills development, improved participation level in school, and government participation.

Skills Development

Scouting activities have certainly helped students develop their fine and gross motor skills with activities such as knotting, fun games, flag folding, and many more.  Furthermore, it also helped them gain social and communication skills through interacting with other classes and community members. This interaction also brings increased awareness among people on special needs.

Improved Participation Level in School and Community

Scouting encourages them to attend school more. It has been noticed that the participation level of these students in school increased. Scouting has also led the students to interact with community members through community projects like the Clean-Up Campaign and tree planting.

Government Participation

The school is actively engaging with other organisations to support diversity and inclusion. These are the Leadership Fiji, Fiji Sports Commission, and other government and non-government organisations.

Fiji Scout Association has enabled both youth and adults to understand and acquire the necessary knowledge and competencies to face the realities of living in an intercultural and multicultural world where differences are valued and respected. Scouting groups and leaders have reached many individuals in need of assistance, and will continue their unwavering efforts to promote diversity and inclusion.