Concerns have been raised about school children who leave home dressed for school but are found loitering instead of attending class. This troubling trend worries parents, who assume their children are in school, while teachers mark them absent. The risks of children wandering are significant, especially if they encounter danger during their time away from school. It is recognized that young individuals often face temptations that lead them away from their educational responsibilities. A collaborative effort from guardians, educators, and community members is essential to tackle this issue before it spirals out of control. Reports indicate that some students have been seen wandering around shops in the capital during school hours. Parents are urged to prioritize education, ensuring their children attend school daily and punctually. If a child shows disinterest in school, it may be better to keep them at home rather than allowing them to waste their time and resources. It is requested that relevant authorities enhance their collaboration with school boards and community entities to better address the problem of children found loitering.
In another area of concern, road safety has become a pressing issue in the country. Recent statistics indicate that road accidents remain a significant problem, heavily impacted by speeding, hit-and-run incidents, and distracted driving, particularly due to mobile phone usage while driving. These dangerous behaviors not only jeopardize the lives of drivers but also those of pedestrians and passengers. This year alone, over 38 fatalities have been reported on the roads. Although this number shows a decline from last year’s total of 62 deaths, it underlines that road safety is still a critical issue. Each statistic signifies a life lost, a family impacted, and a community in mourning. To address these dangers, various initiatives are suggested to promote safer driving practices. This includes awareness campaigns, strict enforcement of traffic laws, community involvement, and the use of technology, such as mobile applications that notify drivers of speed limits or identify high-risk accident areas. A collective effort among local governments, law enforcement, and community organizations is critical in making progress towards reducing road-related injuries and fatalities.
As the soccer IDC approaches in the next two weeks, Lautoka is expected to be bustling with activity. While businesses are set to profit, there are concerns about potential illegal drug activities that may arise. There are recommendations for the Fiji Police Force’s dog unit to be present at Churchill Park to ensure a trouble-free tournament. The Fiji Football Association plans to focus on detecting players using banned substances to enhance their performance, amidst reports that some players and district management have previously outmaneuvered drug testing protocols. There is hope that this time, the Fiji FA can improve its testing methods to prevent such practices.
In the realm of rugby, players advocating for their rightful concerns seem to face repercussions, likened to being sent to a “sin bin.” Despite being among the best in the world, these athletes experience what some describe as victimization. The sentiment shared is that this issue transcends soccer, suggesting a broader problem within sports governance that requires thorough reform. Fijian fans are encouraged to vocalize their support for the athletes who frequently find themselves at a disadvantage.