Selina Kuruleca, the permanent secretary for Women, Children, and Social Protection and Justice, announced that a new partnership between UNICEF and Japan has officially launched a four-year initiative aimed at addressing the growing risks faced by children in Fiji. During the launch event held in Suva, Ms. Kuruleca outlined the ambitious objectives of the project, which include the establishment of 30 child-friendly service hubs and 45 student-friendly spaces throughout the country.
The statistics shared at the event underscored the urgent challenges confronting the youth. In 2023 alone, schools reported 3,500 cases of substance abuse among students. Additionally, police records from May 2024 to May 2025 documented 2,400 drug-related incidents, with over 300 of these cases involving minors. By the start of 2025, Fiji had already seen 1,226 recorded HIV cases, further highlighting the toll of these issues on the younger population.
“These figures are more than numbers; they represent the lives of our children, our nephews, nieces, and grandchildren,” emphasized Ms. Kuruleca. She highlighted that overcoming these challenges necessitates a collaborative approach involving multiple government sectors, including justice, health, policing, education, and immigration.
“Strong referral pathways are essential to ensure these children receive support before they encounter serious difficulties. The true essence of the Child Care and Protection Act lies in creating safe spaces where children can seek counsel and assistance,” she added.
Ms. Kuruleca extended her gratitude to the government and people of Japan for their invaluable support, emphasizing that this partnership reaffirms the commitment to prioritize the dignity and wellbeing of every child in Fiji. This collaborative effort represents a promising step towards a safer and healthier future for the nation’s youth.
Leave a comment