Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has called on parents to stay vigilant amid rising reports of drug use in schools. When questioned about his level of concern, he expressed, “Yes, I am concerned.” He emphasized the need for more proactive measures to address this growing issue.
“So far, we have not done anything extra apart from the requests for parental and community support, especially regarding our policing efforts,” he stated. Additionally, he highlighted the absence of significant action specifically related to the narcotics legislation that is currently being developed. He urged parents to be aware of the various developments occurring across the country, particularly within their homes.
Minister for Home Affairs Pio Tikoduadua echoed these sentiments, urging the public to adhere to the principle of “say no to drugs.” He noted that this approach is crucial for empowering individuals, especially vulnerable students, to make the right choices. The Ministry of Education is implementing programs aimed at maintaining safe and drug-free schools, which aligns with the anti-narcotics strategy the government supports.
Tikoduadua emphasized that anyone taking advantage of children by providing them drugs should face strict consequences. He insisted that in instances where students are found with drugs on school property, it is essential to file formal reports to determine how the students obtained the substances. “This child is now high. Where did they acquire the drugs? It needs to be reported to the police so that someone can be held accountable. It’s inexcusable,” he stated.
He also pointed out that drugs represent a societal challenge that requires collective responsibility. Tikoduadua called for the enhancement of existing systems within schools to deter students from engaging with drugs. “Those systems need to be strengthened to ensure that children are discouraged from experimenting with drugs. Hopefully, with increased awareness, students will make better choices,” he concluded.