Police are currently investigating a man whose harsh teaching methods, aimed at helping two children learn to count, have triggered widespread outrage across the country. The situation gained attention after a Facebook video went viral, depicting the man aggressively instructing a young child, resulting in visible distress and tears.
A follow-up video reportedly showing the same individual mistreating a toddler has also surfaced. By yesterday evening, the initial video had generated significant reactions, with nearly 1,000 reactions, over 350 comments, and more than 60 shares, some of which disturbingly endorsed the man’s actions.
Law enforcement has confirmed that the man featured in the videos is being questioned regarding the alleged maltreatment, and the investigation remains active. Authorities are determined to pursue justice for the affected children.
Sashi Kiran, the Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection, has publicly condemned the incident and has committed to implementing stricter measures to safeguard children from abuse. In her statement, she acknowledged the concerning nature of the footage circulating online and confirmed that her ministry is collaborating with law enforcement to investigate the incident.
Kiran revealed alarming statistics indicating that about 72% of children in Fiji have faced some form of violence, encompassing physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. Many of these cases occur in environments that should be supportive and safe, such as homes, schools, and communities.
She pointed out that sometimes in the pursuit of education, certain parents resort to extreme disciplinary methods that can have lasting negative impacts on children and their learning processes. Recognizing this issue, Kiran emphasized the importance of educational initiatives focused on healthy parenting, especially for younger parents who may lack guidance from extended family.
The Ministry is actively working on campaigns to educate parents about proper practices, what constitutes as violence against children, and the means to prevent such actions. Kiran strongly asserted that every child in Fiji deserves a safe and nurturing environment, free from fear.
To strengthen this mission, she encouraged families, community leaders, educators, and citizens to unite in efforts to create a safer atmosphere for children across Fiji.
In summary, while the incident is distressing and highlights significant social issues regarding child abuse, the commitment from authorities and advocacy for educational reforms represents a hopeful step toward fostering a protective and nurturing environment for vulnerable children in Fiji.
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