Fiji’s Women, Children and Social Protection Minister, Lynda Tabuya, has expressed serious concerns regarding the increasing number of child neglect cases in the country. She is calling on both parents and the community to assume greater responsibility for the well-being of their children.
Ms. Tabuya stressed the importance of familial engagement, stating that addressing these issues is not solely the government’s duty, but that parents and guardians must also play an active role. “It is back to the family unit, it is back to the responsibilities of parents and guidance,” she emphasized, highlighting that the government and other stakeholders can only support these efforts.
Additionally, Ms. Tabuya pointed out the negative impact of screen time on parent-child interactions, observing that many parents spend excessive time on their phones, which diminishes meaningful engagement with their children. “Children would like to see that change, where the parents engage with them more meaningfully,” she noted.
In a related development, Education Minister Aseri Radrodro confirmed that between 2019 and 2023, a troubling 5,726 students dropped out of school before reaching Year 10. To combat this trend, Ms. Tabuya has advocated for making education compulsory in Fiji. She remarked, “With education now being free, parents must understand their responsibility to ensure their children attend school,” asserting that compulsory education will encourage increased parental accountability.
In summary, the rising cases of child neglect in Fiji highlight a critical need for enhanced parental involvement and responsibility. Advocating for compulsory education could further strengthen community commitment to ensuring children receive proper guidance and education. This situation presents an opportunity for families to connect more deeply and promote a nurturing environment for the future generation. With collaborative effort, there is hope for positive change in the lives of children across Fiji.
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