Forty-seven students from Nadi, trained by police officers, are now equipped to assume leadership roles within their communities.
These students, hailing from various schools in Nadi and Sigatoka, participated in a two-day Blue Light leadership training and practical skills development program held at Korovuto College in Nadi.
The training was organized and supported by Blue Light, a registered charity in New Zealand that partners with police to provide various youth programs and activities.
The aims of Blue Light include reducing the chances of young people becoming offenders or victims of crime and enhancing the relationships between the police, youth, parents, and the community.
On Wednesday, these 47 students celebrated their graduation from the program.
Divisional Police Commander West Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Iakobo Vaisewa urged the students to act as catalysts for change in their schools and communities.
“Take into account everything you have learned. We gathered from different parts of Nadi because we believe in your potential as future leaders,” SSP Vaisewa stated.
“Many of your peers have been involved in activities that jeopardize their safety, including drug use, sexual offences, assault, burglary, and theft.
“They partake in drug use, glue sniffing, and share explicit photos for money and sex. Such behavior tarnishes the image of our youth and poses a serious challenge for our beloved Fiji.”
He cautioned them against following these destructive paths.
“Some of your peers are headed in that direction. You still have the chance to choose the right path,” SSP Vaisewa emphasized.
He encouraged them to recognize their self-worth and potential.
“Understand your worth and the significance of your choices. Regardless of what others may say about you, be mindful of your value and capabilities. You were selected for this program to become agents of change,” he concluded.