A primary school student in Nadi has recently been identified as the youngest victim involved in the trade of nude images and videos for cash and other benefits. This alarming discovery was reported by Alice Fong, the Ministry of Education’s Divisional Counsellor for the Western Division, during a women’s conference organized by the Arya Pratinidhi Sabha of Fiji at Gurukul Primary School in Lautoka.
Fong emphasized the need for parents to be vigilant and actively monitor their children’s activities on social media, citing an increase in challenges faced by parents over the past two decades. She noted specific trends she encountered during school visits in the Western Division, highlighting a social media app called Telegram, where young girls and boys share explicit pictures and videos in exchange for money or gifts such as recharge cards and phones.
The situation escalated to the point where the ministry and police had to intervene concerning the young student involved in this trade. She also raised another disturbing issue where young girls have been missing school to engage in joy rides, with some traveling from Nadi to Lautoka instead of attending classes.
Fong urged parents to communicate with their children about the dangers of such behavior and to serve as positive role models by instilling good values.
In response, Education Minister Aseri Radrodro expressed deep concern over the issue, reiterating that the responsibility for educating children lies not only with the Ministry of Education but is a collective duty that involves parents and the community. He highlighted the changing landscape of education and the challenges posed by mobile phone use, calling upon parents to ensure their children come to school with the right mindset.
Additionally, Assistant Commissioner of Police Sakeo Ganivatu addressed the need for parental engagement, cautioning against the ease with which children are given mobile phones while parents engage in their own activities. He stressed that early intervention is crucial for effective child development and highlighted the importance of parental involvement to prevent children from falling into negative habits.
Ultimately, both officials stressed the critical role parents play in their children’s lives, urging them to prioritize quality time and communication to safeguard their well-being and ensure a positive upbringing.