The Ministry of Education has expressed serious concerns over an alarming increase in the number of girls involved with illicit drugs within school environments. According to Vilisimani Rakikau, the ministry’s Substance Abuse, Alcohol, and Other Drugs Counsellor, approximately ten girls from a notable high school have been referred to the ministry this year for being under the influence or in possession of drugs. This troubling trend is particularly pronounced in the Central Division.
Mr. Rakikau pointed out that while boys are frequently associated with drug use, the rise in incidents involving girls cannot be overlooked. He emphasized the ministry’s commitment to responding effectively to such cases. When severe instances are reported, they are forwarded to the police, while counselling is offered to the affected students. The Ministry of Education encourages school heads to act swiftly upon identifying these issues.
Although specific statistics were not disclosed, Mr. Rakikau labeled the problem as alarming and a significant concern at the national level. Despite a relatively low number of juvenile offenders from 2019 to 2023—with the majority being in the 18 to 35 age bracket—this notable uptick in drug-related issues among school-aged children signifies a worrying trend.
Assistant Commissioner of Police Sakeo Raikaci highlighted that the 18 to 35 age group continues to report the most offenses, reaching a peak of 1,004 in 2020 and slightly declining to 1,001 in 2023. Moreover, the ministry has received troubling reports of primary school students being exploited as “runners” for drug deliveries. Mr. Rakikau shared a concerning incident from last year where a second-grade student unknowingly delivered drugs packed in their lunchbox, a situation that was fortunately thwarted by police intervention.
As the festive season nears, Mr. Rakikau urged parents and guardians to remain vigilant about their children’s whereabouts. He voiced a heartfelt plea for increased awareness regarding children’s safety, reinforcing the message that, especially during school breaks, children are safest when at home. Senior Superintendent Salanieta Radaniva, the Director of Community Policing for the Fiji Police Force, echoed this sentiment, reminding parents of their vital responsibilities in protecting their children.
In a time when youth drug use poses a growing challenge, there’s a hopeful opportunity for community engagement and family involvement. By fostering open dialogue between parents, schools, and law enforcement, the groundwork can be laid for effective prevention and support strategies that nurture a safer environment for young people.
Summary: The Ministry of Education has raised alarms about a troubling rise in drug use among school-aged girls, with notable incidents prompting quick responses from authorities. As the community comes together to address this issue, there’s hope for positive change through heightened awareness and proactive measures from parents and schools.
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