Crisis in Classrooms: Are Schools Losing the Battle Against Drugs?

The deteriorating behavior of students in schools, alongside increasing drug use among youth, are urgent topics for discussion at the School Management Association of Fiji’s ninth biennial conference today. Association president Govind Singh expressed deep concern over the prevalent drug issues, supported by anonymous accounts from teachers who highlighted a lack of effective action in addressing these challenges. They described alarming situations where students attend school displaying signs of drug use, including bloodshot eyes and disrespectful behavior towards teachers.

Singh referenced Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka’s earlier proposal for regular checks in schools, noting that little progress has been made in this area. Attempts to obtain comments from the Ministry of Education regarding policies such as bag checks have gone unanswered, raising questions about the current response to these issues.

Singh emphasized that drug use among students is a symptom of broader community problems rather than something that originates within school walls. He underscored the need for a cooperative effort between schools, parents, and the community to effectively tackle the drug problems. He lamented the loss of structured education forums that used to facilitate communication between school authorities and the Ministry of Education, suggesting this gap contributes to the ongoing challenges.

In light of these concerns, Assistant Police Commissioner Livai Driu has urged parents to be vigilant and check their children’s bags before school. This proactive measure could play a significant role in alerting families to potential drug use and fostering a more supportive environment for students.

Despite the grim outlook presented in the conference discussions, there is a glimmer of hope. Increased awareness and dialogue among school leaders, educators, and community members about these pressing issues may pave the way for more effective strategies to promote student wellbeing and restore a positive school environment. Collaborative efforts could ultimately lead to the revitalization of educational forums and stronger partnerships, which are crucial for addressing the challenges facing schools today.