Fiji Schools Urged to Tackle Drug and Violence Crisis with Holistic Education

Fiji’s schools are grappling with significant challenges including drug abuse, violence, and negative influences stemming from various societal factors. The complexity of these issues has prompted calls for a more comprehensive approach to education that involves the entire community, not just educators.

At a recent biennial conference in Nausori, Govind Singh, president of the School Management Association of Fiji, emphasized the urgent need for an educational framework designed to nurture the character of students and benefit the nation as a whole. He suggested that the upcoming budget should allocate funds toward developing a curriculum focused on character education to address the pressing issues of violence and substance abuse in schools.

Mr. Singh highlighted that over 90 percent of schools in Fiji are operated by faith-based organizations, making the country a distinctive model in the Pacific region. He expressed the importance of collaboration between schools and local communities to ensure that educational programs reflect community values.

Referencing troubling media reports on the prevalence of drug use among students, Mr. Singh argued that improving educational outcomes is a collective responsibility that extends beyond teachers. He acknowledged the dedication of educators but noted the need for stronger partnerships between school management and communities, which have reportedly weakened over the past decade.

He further called for the revival of the Education Forum, a platform he believes is necessary for enhancing collaborative efforts within educational governance.

Despite the challenges faced, this initiative presents an opportunity for transformation in Fiji’s educational landscape, fostering a stronger community approach to tackling issues facing students. By investing in character development and bringing together stakeholders, there is hope for a brighter future for Fiji’s youth.

In summary, the School Management Association advocates for a holistic educational approach involving the entire community to counteract the pressing social issues affecting students in Fiji, while emphasizing the need for renewed collaboration and support structures.