Fiji is currently facing a shortage of child psychologists and psychiatrists, as highlighted by Women, Children and Social Protection Minister Lynda Tabuya during a media conference. She emphasized the urgent need to improve child support services in the country, noting that the ministry is struggling to recruit qualified professionals in this field.
“The Government is dedicated to ensuring these essential services are available for children,” she stated. To address this issue, the ministry is providing training and upskilling to its child welfare offices to better cater to the psychological needs of children.
Tabuya also called on the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Health to attract more mental health experts to Fiji. Additionally, she urged non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to play a role in safeguarding the welfare of children.
The minister revealed that the ministry is in the process of developing the first National Action Plan aimed at preventing violence against children. This plan will focus on five key areas: traditional settings, immediate environments, educational institutions, faith-based organizations, and family dynamics.
“We are taking a holistic approach to support families in protecting children and ensuring the welfare of all family members,” she concluded.