Police are currently investigating a viral video that allegedly shows a student from Swami Vivekananda College (SVC) confronting someone with a weapon at the Nadi Bus Stand.
The incident has sparked concerns from alumni and the bus association, urging stakeholders to take action to prevent such occurrences in the future.
The viral video, which emerged on Monday, depicts a student in school uniform reportedly confronting and assaulting another individual.
Rohit Latchan, general secretary of the Fiji Bus Operators Association, highlighted the importance of stakeholders working together to prevent such incidents. “It’s an unfortunate incident. The safety of passengers and drivers, including those in and out of the bus, is paramount,” Latchan said. “Stakeholders such as police and education need to collaborate to ensure such incidents do not happen.”
Police spokesperson Wame Bautolu confirmed that an investigation is underway. “A video in circulation on social media where a student and another individual are involved in a fight at the Nadi Bus Stand is being investigated,” Bautolu said. He added that police in Nadi had received two assault reports, one from the student’s parents and another from the other individual involved.
SVC school manager Swami Bhadreshananda stated that the school management had met to discuss the incident and were awaiting guidance from the Ministry of Education. School principal Rajesh Krishna echoed this, noting, “The matter is with police. We are also waiting for the ministry to decide what action to be taken.”
Kesaia Koto, an SVC alumna, expressed concern about the incident’s impact on the school’s reputation. “The school is well-known for building noble characters, and such incidents undermine its reputation,” she said. “We are not proud of the video. Current students need to understand the school has been thriving for many years. Let’s not be children who throw tantrums when we don’t get our way.”
Permanent Secretary for Education Selina Kuruleca confirmed that the incident occurred two weeks ago and said, “I’m waiting for the report from the divisional education officer West. The senior education advisor has been asked to verify all information. We’ll provide counseling support to the student and meet with the parents.”