The Ministry of Education has reported over 37,470 disciplinary cases in Nausori for the previous year, with notable categories including 3,143 drug-related incidents, 33,058 violence cases, 1,024 sexual offenses, and 248 issues related to social media. In an effort to address these challenges and support students, the Sila Central High School has launched a new Student Support Services Hub that enhances access to wellbeing and psychosocial support.
This hub, which serves students from approximately 150 schools within the Nausori district and neighboring regions, is a significant initiative delivered through the Australia Fiji Education Program in partnership with the Ministry of Education as part of the broader Vuvale Partnership. Funded entirely by the Australian Government, the refurbishment of this facility cost $45,000 and aims to provide essential services to students from Tailevu, Rewa, and Naitasiri.
Over the past six years, Australia has actively contributed to building the capacity of the Ministry, particularly through training counselors via the Pacific Australia Skills program and supplying valuable school resources. The newly established hub in Nausori is the fifth of its kind since the year began, joining others located in Lautoka, Nasinu, Levuka, and Labasa. Each of these centers provides critical services including counseling, case management, and referral processes to help schools tackle behavioral and emotional challenges.
Operating under the technical guidance of the Substance Abuse Advisory Council, these hubs play a vital role in managing complex social issues and cases of substance abuse. Education Minister Aseri Radrodro emphasized that professional counseling offers a pathway for emotional healing, noting that in 2025 alone, 1,338 children utilized these vital services. Acting Deputy High Commissioner Emeline Cammack highlighted that the establishment of the hub signifies Australia’s ongoing commitment to fostering wellbeing systems that empower students to excel.
Looking ahead, plans are underway to set up a total of 13 hubs across the nation, with current projects happening in Savusavu and Kadavu. The establishment of these support hubs represents a positive step forward in addressing the growing concerns related to students’ emotional health and safety, aiming to create thriving educational environments.
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