Ratu Tuikilakila Lalabalavu, the newly appointed deputy head boy at Queen Victoria School, has committed to tackling the issue of bullying at the institution, which he identifies as a persistent problem requiring urgent action. Hailing from Somosomo in Taveuni, Lalabalavu highlights bullying as a significant challenge faced by many boarding schools, particularly the mistreatment of younger students by their senior peers.
In his remarks, Lalabalavu noted that instances of bullying often manifest when junior students are coerced into performing chores that are not theirs to undertake, such as washing clothes. “Many issues in this school are the boys, especially senior boys,” he stated. His objective for this year is clear: to reduce incidents of bullying and ideally eradicate it altogether.
Acknowledging the considerable responsibilities associated with his new position, Lalabalavu expressed his intent to lead with integrity, aiming to serve and protect his fellow students. “It’s a big responsibility not only for me, but for the school,” he said, emphasizing the need to collaborate with school administration and house captains to bolster discipline within the school community.
Lalabalavu envisions this year as a pivotal time for collective effort and self-belief in their various leadership roles. He also expressed gratitude towards his parents for their steadfast support throughout his educational journey, crediting them as his principle source of strength during challenging experiences.
Looking to the future, Lalabalavu aspires to become a lawyer, driven by a passion for justice and a firm belief in the importance of discipline—qualities he believes are essential to effectively combat and change the culture surrounding bullying within schools. His dedication to addressing this issue reflects a hopeful vision for a more supportive and respectful environment for all students at Queen Victoria School.
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