Fiji

About Fiji

Fiji's rich history spans ancient Lapita and Melanesian settlements, the establishment of the Tu'i Tonga Empire's influence, encounters with European explorers, and a period as a British colony before gaining independence in 1970. Despite political upheavals including coups in 1987 and 2006, Fiji has emerged as a vibrant multicultural nation blending indigenous Fijian, Indian, European, and other traditions. Its unique culture, shaped by this diverse heritage, is expressed through arts, crafts, ceremonies, and a warm, welcoming spirit.

Capital

Suva

Main Religions

Christianity 65%

Hinduism 28%

Time Zone

UTC +12; Summer

(DST) UTC +13

Languages

Fijian, English, Fiji Hindi and Rotuman

Population

900,000

Area

18,274 km²

Arrival of Marists

1888

Number of Marist Brothers Communities & location

2 - Vatuwaqa and Lomeri

Number of Brothers

Marist Schools & location

5 - Marist Brothers High School, Marist Champagnat Institute, Marist Brothers Primary School, St Marcellin Primary School and Marcellin’s Angel’s Kindergarten

Transcending Boundaries: Marist Brothers' Transformative Educational Journey in Fiji

History

The Marist Brothers' journey in Fiji began in 1888 when the first teaching Brothers arrived with the task of educating children of European settlers. However, by the turn of the century, they had expanded their mission, opening two schools for native Fijians and one for the Indian population in Suva, providing educational opportunities that were previously unavailable to these communities. Since their arrival in 1888, the Brothers have taught in various locations across Fiji, including Suva, Cawaci, Naililili, Wairiki, Napuka, and Savarekareka, leaving an indelible mark on the nation's educational landscape.

Presently, there are six Brothers residing in Fiji. Two of those Brothers are over 70 years of age and are still engaged in part time teaching roles. Two Brothers are at the Post Novitiate Stage and are currently committed to studies at the University of the South Pacific as well as the Pacific Regional Seminary. One Brother remains as caretaker of the former Pacific Novitiate, currently being used as a retreat and meeting venue.

Marist Life and Mission Groups

There are three partnership groups who meet regularly in Lomeri and Suva.
One of the Suva groups is a youth group. Marist Ministries and Schools Marist Brothers have had a presence in schools since 1888. They have taught in schools in Suva, Cawaci, Napuka, Wairiki, Naililili and Savarekarereka. The Brothers pioneered multiracial education when they opened their secondary school to all races in 1937.

There are currently five educational institutions owned by the Brothers in Suva. One Brother is a Director of a Tertiary Level Child Care Institution which offers a Diploma level course.

It was originally begun by the Brothers at Marist Champagnat Institute and remains there, but is now affiliated to Corpus Christi Teachers’ College. Marist Champagnat Institute is an inclusive Special needs school catering for students at Post Primary School level. Formation Formation sessions for staff are run as part of the schools’ internal professional development program.