As various concerning issues continue to rise in the country, it’s essential to focus on educating youths who can raise awareness and advocate for necessary change. One effective approach is implementing youth empowerment training in rural areas.
In line with this, the Ministry of Youth and Sports has organized training sessions aimed at informing young people in villages about significant topics such as drug abuse and the increase in HIV/AIDS cases. A recent session took place in Viseisei Village in Ba, providing an opportunity for participants to learn about a range of subjects including HIV/AIDS prevention, financial literacy, mental health awareness, sexual reproductive health and rights, human trafficking, and the impacts of cyberbullying.
Statistics from the Fiji Police Force have revealed that as of July this year, there were 768 drug-related cases reported, with the Western Division alone registering 347 cases. The Ministry of Health has also reported a rise in HIV/AIDS, with cases increasing from 245 in 2022 to 415 last year, indicating a growing national concern.
The training program was made possible through collaboration with various stakeholders, including health professionals, educators, and community leaders, who offered valuable insights into these critical issues and preventative measures. The Ministry emphasized their commitment to fostering a safe and empowering environment for the youth involved in the training.
By equipping participants with the necessary knowledge and tools to tackle these complex challenges, the Ministry aims to prepare young people to face both current and future issues effectively. The program also facilitated interaction among participants through group activities, enhancing their learning experience.
This training initiative represents a vital step towards nurturing resilient, informed, and responsible future leaders within Fiji’s communities.