QVS Bullying Scandal: A Call for Change in Fiji’s Schools

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka has issued a strong condemnation of recent bullying incidents at Queen Victoria School (QVS), where nine senior students were expelled for physically assaulting junior students. This troubling situation has reignited concerns over the safety and culture in Fiji’s boarding schools.

During a press conference, Rabuka, a former student of QVS, emphasized that leadership roles in schools do not grant any child the right to inflict harm on others. He recalled that during his own time at QVS, bullying was managed differently, with peers holding each other accountable. “In our days, we kept it at a student level,” he said, reflecting on the lost peer control today.

Distressed parents have voiced their concerns and are calling for immediate action to halt such violence, echoing the Prime Minister’s sentiments about the importance of instilling proper values in children. Rabuka stressed that discipline should never equate to violence, sharing a personal anecdote about his great-granddaughter, a class prefect, who struggles to command respect from her peers but knows that physical retaliation is never acceptable.

Rabuka’s statements resonate with broader discussions surrounding student discipline in educational institutions, gaining support from Education Minister Aseri Radrodro, who emphasizes the need for increased parental involvement and a stricter upbringing to help steer children away from harmful behaviors.

The recent bullying incidents at QVS echo previous concerns regarding student misconduct, including allegations of bullying and drug use. A collective effort among parents, teachers, and the community is necessary to cultivate a culture of respect, safety, and accountability within educational settings.

In light of these events, stakeholders are hopeful that together they can enact meaningful changes that will foster a supportive educational environment throughout Fiji’s schools. The commitment to addressing these issues signals a positive potential for improving safety and well-being in schools, ensuring that learning remains free from fear and intimidation.