The Education Ministry has sought the assistance of the Fiji Police Force’s K9 units to conduct random checks at schools to help address the issue of drug use among students. Selina Kuruleca, the permanent secretary of the Education Ministry, explained to a Parliamentary Committee during a discussion on the 2022 audit report for the Social Services Sector that they aim to deploy K9 units at schools located in high-risk areas.
However, Ms. Kuruleca acknowledged the limitations faced by the K9 units in conducting these checks. She mentioned that an agreement has been reached with the Fiji Police to have K9 units present at major sporting events attended by children, such as the Fiji finals and the Deans competition, where large gatherings occur.
Statistics indicate that only 1.7 percent of students have reported using legal or illegal drugs, suggesting that the vast majority of students remain unaffected. Ms. Kuruleca pointed out that out of the approximately 207,000 students, around 98 percent have not engaged in drug use.
In a proactive move, the ministry recently held its first stakeholder task force meeting with various partners. Originally inviting 45 individuals, the meeting saw participation from representatives of 75 different organizations. Ms. Kuruleca emphasized the importance of collaboration, noting the necessity to work together with other ministries to develop an action plan following the meeting.
She acknowledged the need for a coordinated effort, stating that previously, there appeared to be a lack of unified direction. The ministry is appreciative of the counternarcotics strategy currently in use but recognizes that deeper involvement with partners is essential for effective implementation moving forward.