Young Fijians are increasingly immersed in the world of smartphones and digital devices, raising significant concerns regarding their overall wellbeing. This alarming trend has been highlighted by Minister for Youth and Sports, Jese Saukuru, who noted that excessive screen time not only keeps children away from offline interactions but also hinders their social and physical development.
Saukuru emphasized that urgent measures are necessary to steer youth towards more meaningful and productive activities. He urged parents to engage their children in pursuits that foster growth and connection, highlighting the importance of balancing technology use with real-world experiences.
“We have witnessed the rise of smartphones and their profound effects on our Gen Z youth. It’s crucial to adopt a holistic approach to guide them back on track,” Saukuru stated. He connected the increasing reliance on screens to larger societal issues, including rising unemployment rates, drug use, and the spread of HIV, which reflects the need for community intervention.
In light of these challenges, Saukuru called for collaborative efforts among leaders and families to safeguard the youth against crime, particularly given the uptick in online activities since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. The government has initiated programs like youth sports initiatives to encourage young people to interact and engage in the physical realm, aiming to cultivate a balanced lifestyle that harmonizes technology with healthy, real-world activities.
This commitment to supporting young Fijians in finding the right balance between their digital and physical lives offers a hopeful path forward, fostering resilience and wellbeing in the face of modern challenges.
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