The President, Ratu Epeli Nailatikau, yesterday urged members of the Fiji Scouts Association to help guide young Fijians make wise decisions.

He made the comment while opening the annual general meeting of the Fiji Scouts Association at Government House in Suva yesterday.

“Twenty-fourteen was a significant year to our nation as we returned to democratic rule after eight years,” Ratu Epeli said.

“This is a step forward for the nation. I urge our scout association to look forward to the opportunities we get to reach out to the youths of Fiji and contribute in making a difference in their lives. This is our duty in nation building.

“Scouting and its programmes focus on building trust, discipline and humility to boys and girls.

“Your roles as leaders to the youths are commended as you instill in the youths you lead these positive characteristics.

“Our gathering here gives me the opportunity to express my appreciation for the support you have willingly given over the past years to maintain the high interest that scouting enjoys in Fiji.”

He also paid tribute to two executives of the association who died last year.

“We especially remember the passing away of two former chief commissioners, Ronald Jorgensen and Chandra Shekhar,” he said.

“The year 2014 added on to a new chapter in our 100th year’s history. The association is honoured to have the highest officer of the land as its leader.”

The association conducted 13 basic training courses last year across the country for young people.

Association chief commissioner Jone Naisau said emphasis this year would be for membership drive.

‘‘We staged the Fiji Centennial Jamboree at Queen Victoria School in Matavatucou last August during the school holidays. The one-week was attended by scouts, venturers and leaders,” he said.

“I am delighted to inform that Dr Brij Lal, as the deputy chief commissioner, won a seat in Fiji’s election last September.

“I am delighted to inform that we have 10175 registered members altogether. ‘We enjoyed the support of female members with about 500 registered as members, but specific initiative has been taken to strengthen this component of the membership.”

The next annual general meeting will be held at Government House, Suva, on April 26, next year.

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