Amid the ongoing rise of various pressing issues in the country, educating young people to voice their concerns and raise awareness is increasingly important. One effective method to highlight these challenges is through youth empowerment training conducted in rural areas.
The Ministry of Youth and Sports has initiated training programs aimed at enlighten youths in villages and communities about critical topics such as drug abuse and the growing prevalence of HIV/AIDS. A recent training session took place in Viseisei Village in Ba, where participants gained knowledge on HIV/AIDS prevention, financial literacy, illicit drugs, mental health, sexual reproductive health and rights, human trafficking, and cyberbullying.
Statistics from the Fiji Police Force revealed a total of 768 drug-related incidents reported as of July this year, with the Western Division alone accounting for 347 cases. Regarding HIV/AIDS, the Ministry of Health noted an increase in cases from 245 in 2022 to 415 last year, identifying it as a national concern.
During the training, collaboration with various stakeholders, including health professionals, educators, and community leaders, provided vital insights into these issues and offered strategies for prevention. The Ministry emphasized its commitment to creating a safe and empowering environment for the participating youths.
Through equipping participants with essential knowledge and tools to navigate these complex challenges, the Ministry aims to ensure that today’s youth are well-prepared for future obstacles. The training also facilitated interaction and collaboration among participants through group activities.
This training program marks a significant advancement toward developing resilient, informed, and responsible young leaders within Fiji’s communities.