Values Begin at Home, Says Singh

The Minister for Employment, Productivity and Workplace Relations, Honourable Agni Deo Singh, says strong leadership begins with the values taught at home.

Speaking at the Labasa College Prefect Induction Ceremony last Friday, Minister Singh highlighted the important role parents and families play in shaping future leaders.

Addressing newly inducted prefects, parents and teachers, he said leadership is built on values that are developed long before individuals take on positions of responsibility.

“Mentoring and teaching values begins at home,” Minister Singh said.

“The quality of our children’s upbringing determines their behaviour, their respect for others, and the values they carry with them into society and into leadership.”

He reminded the prefects that while the badge they wear represents responsibility, the character needed to lead with integrity is shaped through years of guidance and example within the family.

“Leadership is not created overnight. It is nurtured daily through guidance, consistency and the example set at home. Strong homes build strong schools, strong communities and ultimately a strong nation,” he said.

Minister Singh also paid tribute to parents and guardians for their sacrifices in raising responsible young people.

“Parents make countless sacrifices often without recognition to ensure their children are raised with dignity, resilience and respect for others. Your commitment is an investment not only in your children’s future, but in the future of Fiji,” he added.

He congratulated the newly inducted prefects and encouraged them to lead with humility, fairness and accountability, reminding them that true leadership is demonstrated through service and being a positive example.

Minister Singh reaffirmed that national development begins with the values instilled at home and strengthened through education.