Three key stories feature on the front page of The Fiji Times for Monday, October 7.
The lead story reveals a disturbing incident as police investigate the alleged rape of a male student by a group of fellow male students at a boarding school in Cakaudrove, Vanua Levu.
In another development, members of Parliament are set to receive new laptops with Windows 11 Business or Pro and high-end mobile phones. Tender documents from the Department of Information Technology & Computing Services indicate that they are seeking a reliable supplier for these devices.
Additionally, the sports section showcases the Fijian Drua with a story by Sports Editor Rohit Deo. In chapter 8 of “The Rise of the Drua”, titled “Home at Last,” the electrifying atmosphere of the Drua’s homecoming in 2022 is celebrated, along with the team’s inspiring performance despite a narrow loss to the Crusaders, which helped boost national morale amidst recovery from COVID-19.
In a synopsis, Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka shared his personal connection to the issue of diabetes during the launch of the Diabetes Campaign 2024 at the Grand Pacific Hotel in Suva. He urged citizens to be mindful of their health, reflecting on the effects of diabetes on his family, including the loss of infant brothers and his mother who lost her sight due to the disease.
The Prime Minister highlighted alarming statistics, noting that an estimated 5,700 Fijians died from non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in 2020, with 80 percent of deaths in Fiji attributed to diabetes and related issues. He emphasized the urgency for collective responsibility and a cultural shift towards healthier lifestyles to combat the rising tide of NCDs, which affect people across all societal divisions.
Rabuka’s message underscores the need for vigilance and a multi-faceted approach, incorporating education, prevention, and community involvement to promote healthy practices. Regular health screenings are essential for identifying at-risk individuals for early intervention. His heartfelt appeal calls for a united effort to tackle the challenges posed by diabetes and NCDs.