Women, Children and Social Protection Minister Lynda Tabuya has expressed serious concerns over the increasing number of child neglect cases in Fiji. She emphasizes the necessity for parents and the wider community to assume greater accountability for the well-being of their children.
According to Ms. Tabuya, active participation in children’s lives is crucial, stating, “It is back to the family unit, it is back to the responsibilities of parents and guardians — it is not solely the Government’s duty to address this issue.” She highlights that the primary responsibility for child care lies with parents and guardians, while the Government and other organizations can provide support.
Ms. Tabuya pointed out that many parents are overly focused on their mobile devices, which undermines meaningful interactions with their children. “Children are asking for a change, and they want their parents to engage more significantly with them,” she noted.
The discussion also touched on education, with Education Minister Aseri Radrodro revealing that from 2019 to 2023, a total of 5,726 students dropped out of school before reaching Year 10. In light of this statistic, Ms. Tabuya advocated for the implementation of compulsory education in Fiji. “With education being free, it is essential for parents to recognize their duty to ensure their children attend school,” she stated. She believes that a law mandating education could motivate parents and guardians to prioritize their children’s attendance.
This call to action is an opportunity for Fijian families to strengthen their bonds and invest more in their children’s futures. By fostering a nurturing environment and prioritizing education, parents can play a pivotal role in shaping a bright future for the upcoming generation.
In summary, the article highlights a pressing issue of child neglect in Fiji and stresses the importance of parental involvement and the need for compulsory education to combat rising dropout rates.
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