In response to an increasing array of urgent issues affecting the nation, it is essential to empower young individuals who can advocate for awareness and action. One effective approach to highlight these concerns is through youth empowerment training in rural areas.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports has been proactive in addressing these critical issues by conducting training sessions aimed at educating young people in villages about topics such as drug abuse and the rising incidence of HIV/AIDS. A recent training event took place in Viseisei Village, Ba.
During this training, youth participants gained knowledge on a variety of subjects, including HIV/AIDS prevention, financial literacy, the dangers of illicit drugs, mental health, sexual reproductive health and rights, human trafficking, and cyberbullying.
Statistics show that as of July this year, the Fiji Police Force recorded 768 drug-related cases, with the Western Division alone accounting for 347 of these incidents. Furthermore, the Ministry of Health reported a concerning rise in HIV/AIDS cases, increasing from 245 in 2022 to 415 last year, signifying a national health issue.
The training program was a collaborative initiative involving health professionals, educators, and community leaders who provided valuable insights into these pressing challenges and strategies for prevention. According to the Ministry, these representatives were committed to fostering a safe and empowering environment for the youths involved in the training.
By equipping participants with the necessary knowledge and tools to navigate these complex issues, the Ministry aims to ensure that young people are well-prepared to confront the challenges of today and the future. Additionally, the training facilitated opportunities for participants to engage and collaborate with one another through group work.
Overall, this training initiative represents a substantial step towards developing resilient, informed, and responsible young leaders within Fiji’s communities.