During a recent session at the mock Youth Parliament, it was revealed that Lautoka hosts the only drug rehabilitation center in the area, with a limited capacity of just 12 students. Manasa Navara, simulating the role of the Opposition Leader, emphasized the urgent need for a national youth rehabilitation program, stressing the alarming rise in drug offenses among iTaukei youth. Navara pointed out that, in 2023 alone, more than 1600 illicit drug cases were reported, involving substances such as methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin.
Navara highlighted the grim consequences of drug addiction, stating that these statistics directly translate to disrupted lives, broken families, and wasted potential, posing a threat to the nation’s future. He advocated for a comprehensive national rehabilitation program focused on education, counseling, skill development, and outreach, which is vital for tackling such issues effectively. He stressed the importance of educating young people in secondary schools, universities, and youth organizations about the risks of drug abuse, including its significant connection to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
In response to the crisis, Navara called for accessible and youth-friendly rehabilitation services across Fiji. These services should offer a combination of clinical counseling, psychological support, vocational training, and strategies for reintegrating individuals into society. Moreover, he proposed that rehabilitation must go hand-in-hand with skills training and opportunities, giving the youth the means to build sustainable lives. Navara suggested that existing youth training centers could be expanded to underpin this new rehabilitation initiative.
Recent discussions in Fiji have highlighted the need for integrating skills-based training into drug rehabilitation efforts. Such comprehensive strategies are not just focused on recovery but also on equipping individuals with practical skills for future employment, which could play a crucial role in their reintegration into society. Ongoing government efforts, including potential funding for the establishment of drug rehabilitation centers and a Counter Narcotics Bureau as part of the 2024-2025 national budget, reflect a commitment to addressing these pressing challenges.
Overall, the discussions at the mock Youth Parliament and other related initiatives indicate a growing recognition of the need for skilled-based, comprehensive rehabilitation solutions in Fiji. These initiatives offer a promising path toward a more supportive framework for the youth to overcome addiction and emerge as constructive members of society, fostering a healthier future for the nation. Such concerted efforts can serve as a beacon of hope, signaling a brighter horizon for affected communities and the country at large.
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