The chairman of the Great Council of Chiefs, Ratu Viliame Seruvakula, emphasized the importance of parental involvement during a passing-out parade at Ratu Sukuna Memorial School. He urged parents and guardians to prioritize their children’s needs over personal interests, highlighting their crucial role in shaping future generations.
At the event, Ratu Seruvakula noted that while teachers and members of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) have provided essential groundwork, it is the responsibility of families to fully support children’s growth until they can navigate life’s challenges independently. He acknowledged the numerous difficulties children face today, including issues that may go unnoticed but significantly impact their lives.
Ratu Seruvakula expressed concern about various societal dangers, such as sexual violation, drug abuse, and child trafficking, which threaten children’s safety and development. He called on parents to refrain from distractions that could impede their responsibility, such as socializing excessively or seeking relief from stress in unhealthy ways.
He urged parents to reflect on the kind of society they wish for their children, emphasizing the need for a caring, disciplined, and just environment that nurtures their development.