A senior education official has emphasized the importance of incorporating skills-based training into drug rehabilitation centers in Fiji. Aminiasi Voresara made this suggestion during a congress held by the Fiji Teachers Registration Authority and the Ministry of Education at the Sofitel Fiji Resort and Spa in Nadi.
Voresara pointed out that there has been a trend of temporary fixes for the country’s growing drug problems, advocating for a more systemic approach. He proposed that rehabilitation centers should not only focus on reforming attitudes and behaviors but also equip individuals with practical skills that prepare them for future employment. “If we do not prepare them for the future, we risk merely providing a holding space without meaningful outcomes,” he asserted.
The Assistant Commissioner of Police for Internal Affairs, Sakeo Ganivatu, stated that they are in conversation with a non-governmental organization to address this concern, signaling a collaborative effort towards creating a more effective rehabilitation framework.
Furthermore, Finance Minister Professor Biman Prasad mentioned that the upcoming national budget for 2024-2025 would consider funding for the establishment of the Fiji Counter Narcotics Bureau and a dedicated drug rehabilitation center, highlighting governmental commitment to address drug-related issues comprehensively.
This initiative presents a hopeful path forward, as integrating skills training into rehabilitation could not only aid in personal recovery but also foster long-term success for individuals struggling with substance use. In essence, such programs can pave the way for a more sustainable future, reducing recidivism and promoting independence among former users.
Leave a comment