Parents in Tailevu and Nausori are urgently demanding action to address an alarming rise in bullying and theft affecting students in local boarding schools. Their concerns have intensified following the Ministry of Education’s recent announcement of the expulsion of nine senior students from a well-known Tailevu school for engaging in corporal punishment against younger pupils. Disturbing reports have surfaced, revealing incidents of physical assaults, theft from dormitory chests, and even cases of students having their feet burned while they slept.
Despite some disciplinary actions being taken, parents feel these measures are insufficient and highlight a troubling culture of bullying that appears to endure, even amidst prior warnings. One parent who pulled their son from a school voiced their dismay over how such behavior has become normalized, with theft and physical punishment being accepted as commonplace.
Adding to the urgency of the situation, Commissioner of Police, Rusiate Tudravu, stressed the importance of parental involvement in addressing these issues. He pointed out that while law enforcement is prepared to intervene, the primary responsibility for guiding youth lies with families. Teacher unions have also highlighted that the situation is deteriorating and requires immediate attention from school administrations. They describe the escalation of bullying as being “out of control” across education levels.
General Secretary of the Fiji Teachers Union, Muniappa Goundar, reinforced these sentiments, advocating for the swift reinforcement of child protection policies and stronger support systems for victims. His counterpart from the Fijian Teachers Association, Paula Manumanunitoga, noted that bullying is widespread in many educational institutions and emphasized the urgent need for collaboration between parents and teachers to combat this troubling trend.
Similarly concerning reports from other boarding schools indicate that instances of bullying and violence are prompting widespread unease about student safety throughout the nation. Nevertheless, parents remain hopeful that with concerted efforts from educational authorities, law enforcement, and community stakeholders, a safer environment for all students will emerge—one where they can learn and grow without fear or intimidation.
This call for action reflects a shared desire for positive change within the educational system, underscoring the essential need for mutual respect and care that allows children to thrive in a nurturing atmosphere.
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