The Education Minister of Fiji, Aseri Radrodro, has acknowledged that the drug problem in schools cannot be resolved quickly. This statement follows reports of students being found with smoking devices at a recent athletics event in Suva. Radrodro emphasized that drug-related issues are societal challenges that extend beyond the responsibility of schools alone, calling for a collective effort from the entire community.
He pointed out that there are over 200,000 students enrolled in schools, and efforts are being made to possibly introduce testing kits in schools as part of ongoing strategies to address the issue. Radrodro mentioned the need for collaboration between various ministries and departments, proposing the establishment of a task force aimed at tackling drug use among students.
“This is not a problem that can be fixed overnight; it requires continuous work and cooperation from the Ministry of Education, schools, parents, guardians, community leaders, and local organizations,” he said. Radrodro stressed that a united approach is essential for effectively addressing the issue of drugs in schools.