The Ministry of Education is raising alarms over an increase in the number of girls in schools being found with illicit drugs or reported to be under the influence. This year alone, around 10 girls from a notable high school were referred to the ministry after being discovered in possession of drugs or exhibiting signs of impairment.
Vilisimani Rakikau, the ministry’s Substance Abuse, Alcohol, and Other Drugs Counsellor, highlighted that while the stereotype often associates drug use with boys, the current trend among girls is increasingly concerning. He mentioned that severe cases are reported to the police, while the ministry provides counseling for the affected students. School heads are encouraged to promptly report such incidents, allowing for a swift response.
Rakikau described the situation as alarming and indicative of a broader national issue, despite the absence of specific statistics. While the number of juvenile offenders has been relatively low from 2019 to 2023, the troubling rise of drug-related incidents among school-aged children reflects a significant shift in drug dynamics within the youth community.
The Assistant Commissioner of Police, Sakeo Raikaci, corroborated that the 18 to 35 age group has consistently represented the highest number of offenders in recent years, peaking at 1,004 in 2020. Additionally, there are concerning reports of primary school students being exploited as “runners” for drug delivery. In an unsettling incident last year, a young student unknowingly transported drugs for a suspect, after being instructed by their parents to wait for a pick-up outside the school.
With the festive season approaching, Rakikau has made a heartfelt plea to parents and guardians, urging them to monitor their children’s whereabouts, emphasizing that safety is no longer guaranteed. Senior Superintendent Salanieta Radaniva of the Fiji Police Force echoed these sentiments, reminding parents of their crucial role in ensuring their children’s safety, particularly during school breaks.
This situation, while troubling, highlights the urgent need for community awareness and engagement in safeguarding youth from drug-related issues. The proactive measures taken by schools and law enforcement, along with parental vigilance, are key to reversing this trend. By approaching this challenge with collaboration and support, there is hope for positive change in the lives of these young individuals.
Overall, the emphasis on awareness and community involvement can serve as a foundation for addressing and mitigating the risks posed by drug use among school-aged children.
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