“Parents: Are You Prioritizing Your Children Enough?”

Police Commissioner Rusiate Tudravu recently appealed to parents during the 2025 Nadroga Arya College passing-out parade held in Sigatoka, urging them to prioritize their children’s needs over personal distractions. He emphasized the critical importance of being actively involved in their children’s lives, particularly in a world where technology often diminishes personal interactions.

In his remarks, Mr. Tudravu noted the alarming increase in youth crime, highlighting that the absence of a consistent and trusted adult figure can lead to children engaging in serious offenses such as drug abuse, sexual crimes, and robbery. He stated, “We must build significant relationships where they are comfortable enough to come to us with their problems, and we can help them learn from them.” This aligns with a recurring theme in his addresses, where he stresses that supportive parenting is vital in shaping the behavior and decisions of young people today.

The Commissioner urged parents to put away their phones and minimize social gatherings, placing their children first in their lives. He highlighted that the challenges children face today are vastly different from those of previous generations, and that guidance from parents is crucial in helping them navigate these difficulties.

Mr. Tudravu’s message resonates with previous calls for increased parental involvement from various leaders, including Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, who similarly stressed the importance of prioritizing children’s welfare in a recent address. Both leaders emphasize that the responsibility of guiding youth does not solely fall on educators or authorities; it’s a communal effort that includes families.

There is a hopeful perspective that through increased engagement and responsibility from parents and guardians, along with community support, a safer and more nurturing environment can be created for Fiji’s youth. By fostering strong relationships and open dialogues, there lies potential for future generations to thrive, steering clear of crime and towards fulfilling lives.