As the country faces a range of pressing issues, it is essential to educate youth who can effectively advocate and raise awareness about these matters. One effective approach is through youth empowerment training in rural areas.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports has organized training sessions to address these vital concerns, focusing on enlightening young people in villages and communities about topics such as drug use and the increase in HIV/AIDS cases. A recent training event took place at Viseisei Village in Ba, where participants learned about HIV/AIDS prevention, financial literacy, illicit drugs, mental health issues, sexual and reproductive health and rights, human trafficking, and cyberbullying.
Data from the Fiji Police Force revealed that there were 768 drug-related cases reported by July of this year, with 347 of those occurring in the Western Division alone. Meanwhile, statistics from the Ministry of Health indicate a rise in HIV/AIDS cases, increasing from 245 in 2022 to 415 last year, highlighting a concerning national issue.
The training program involved collaboration among various stakeholders, including health professionals, educators, and community leaders, who contributed insights on how to address these critical problems effectively. The Ministry expressed that the representatives were dedicated to fostering a safe and empowering environment for the participating youths.
By equipping participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to navigate these complex issues, the Ministry is committed to preparing youth to confront the challenges of both today and the future. The training not only addressed vital topics but also encouraged participants to engage and interact with one another through group activities.
This training initiative represents a crucial advancement towards nurturing resilient, informed, and responsible young leaders within the communities of Fiji.