There is a significant shortage of child psychologists and psychiatrists in Fiji, as highlighted by Women, Children and Social Protection Minister Lynda Tabuya. During a media conference, she emphasized the urgent need to enhance child support services, mentioning that the ministry is finding it challenging to recruit qualified professionals for the role.
“The Government is determined to provide these essential services for children,” she stated. Ms. Tabuya noted that child welfare offices are being trained to better address the psychological needs of children.
Additionally, she urged the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health to work on attracting skilled psychiatrists and psychologists to Fiji. Ms. Tabuya also called on non-governmental organizations to play a vital role in safeguarding children.
The ministry is in the process of developing its first National Action Plan aimed at preventing violence against children. “We are concentrating on five key settings: traditional, immediate, educational, faith-based, and a holistic family approach,” she explained, emphasizing the importance of supporting families to ensure the welfare of children and all family members.