Fiji’s Education Crisis: Are Students’ Mental Health Needs Being Ignored?

A teacher at William Cross College in Nasinu has raised serious concerns about the mental health of students, citing a lack of adequate support systems within the educational framework. During consultations regarding the Education Act of 1966, Uwate Vakaloloma pointed out that the current model, which assigns a single mentor to oversee multiple schools, is insufficient to meet students’ needs.

Vakaloloma, who has served as the child protection officer at the college for three years, criticized the overwhelming responsibility placed on teachers who often lack the necessary training to fulfill these roles. He emphasized the need for a more comprehensive approach, stating, “Teaching has to do a bigger role than we have.” Many students, he noted, are grappling with complex issues in silence, fearing to express their struggles, which can lead to worsening mental health.

Students and administration at the college have echoed these concerns. Head Girl Edna Toumpole highlighted that frequent staff transfers disrupt students’ learning experiences and recommended that such moves occur only during academic breaks to minimize disruption.

Additionally, the Fijian Teachers Association’s General Secretary, Paula Manumanitoga, confirmed the alarming absence of trained counselors in schools, aside from chaplains available in boarding institutions. He noted that while teachers receive some basic counseling training during their education, their focus tends to be on discipline management rather than psychological support.

Manumanitoga has called for urgent action from the Education Ministry to enhance the mental health support structures for both teachers and students. This discussion aligns with broader concerns in the Fijian education system regarding mental health and well-being, particularly in light of rising issues such as drug use and other behavioral concerns among students, as identified by various educational leaders and organizations.

In response to these mounting challenges, there’s potential for systemic reform that could create a nurturing environment for all students. By fostering collaboration among teachers, parents, and mental health professionals, Fiji can hope to address these issues effectively, paving the way for a more supportive educational landscape.