The growing concerns regarding student behavior and rampant drug use in schools are set to be major topics of discussion at the ninth biennial conference of the School Management Association of Fiji. President Govind Singh emphasized the alarming nature of drug-related issues affecting students. Additionally, teachers, who chose to remain anonymous, expressed frustration over the lack of effective measures to combat drug use within educational institutions. Reports of students arriving at school visibly intoxicated point to the severity of the problem.
The issue has also attracted the attention of Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, who, back in March, advocated for more stringent measures such as spot checks and blood tests in schools to address this growing crisis. However, teachers reported that no progress has been made in implementing these suggestions, despite repeated attempts to receive updates from the Ministry of Education about potential bag checks.
Singh noted that while the School Management Association has built the majority of schools in Fiji, the efforts have not translated into effective oversight within those institutions. He highlighted the importance of a collaborative approach among parents, communities, and school managements to address the roots of drug use, which he believes often originate outside of school environments.
He pointed out that the lack of communication between school authorities and the Ministry of Education has hindered progress. Previously, regular educational forums helped facilitate these discussions, but those have since been discontinued without a replacement.
Furthermore, Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations Livai Driu has urged parents and guardians to ensure their children are not carrying drugs before they leave home, emphasizing the necessity of parental involvement in combatting this issue.
The gathering of school managers and educators presents an opportunity to develop comprehensive strategies to tackle these multifaceted challenges. There is hope that through collaborative efforts involving parents, teachers, and the community, a concerted response can lead to positive change, improving the educational environment in Fiji.
Ultimately, the conference may pave the way for enhanced partnerships and actionable strategies that can effectively reduce drug use and improve overall student behavior, fostering a healthier atmosphere for learning and development.
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