Forty-seven students from Nadi, who received training from police officers, are now equipped to assume leadership positions in their communities. These students, hailing from various schools in Nadi and Sigatoka, took part in a two-day Blue Light leadership training and practical skills development program at Korovuto College in Nadi.
The program was organized and supported by Blue Light, a registered charity from New Zealand that collaborates with police to offer various youth initiatives and activities. The primary objectives of Blue Light are to minimize the chances of young people becoming either offenders or victims of crime and to improve relationships among the police, youth, parents, and the wider community.
On Wednesday, the students celebrated their graduation from the program.
Divisional Police Commander West, Senior Superintendent of Police Iakobo Vaisewa, urged the students to become change agents within their schools and communities. He emphasized the importance of the knowledge they gained: “Keep a close view of all that you have learned. We gathered from various parts of Nadi because we recognize the potential in you as young leaders,” said SSP Vaisewa.
He addressed the harsh realities that some youths face, noting that many have been involved in dangerous activities, including drug use and various crimes. “This creates a negative image of our youth today and poses a significant challenge for our beloved Fiji,” he stated.
SSP Vaisewa warned the students against following the wrong paths and highlighted their opportunity to choose otherwise. “You still have the opportunity to choose the right path,” he remarked, encouraging them to value their own worth and potential. “Know your potential and understand the importance of your choices. No matter what others say about you, be aware of your worth and capabilities. You were chosen for this program to be agents of change,” he concluded.