Fijian Drua CEO Mark Evans has emphasized the urgency of addressing delayed payments of allowances owed to athletes. Several players from the Drua, who are also members of the Flying Fijians, have not yet received their allowances from the Test series held in June and July, causing considerable frustration within the rugby community.
In a separate report, Fiji’s total national debt has reached $10.309 billion, as detailed in the government’s provisional financial results for the fiscal year ending in July 2024, released this week. This figure marks an increase from $9.74 billion in the previous fiscal year but shows an improvement when compared to the country’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
On another serious note, there is growing concern about drug dealers targeting students eligible for the Tertiary Education Loan Scheme in the greater Suva area. Assistant Commissioner of Police Operations Livai Driu confirmed that arrests were made last week near the University of the South Pacific (USP) Laucala campus in relation to these activities.
Driu noted that drug dealers are becoming increasingly strategic in their operations, often focusing on groups of students. Police have initiated random searches of suspicious gatherings in the Southern Division to combat this issue. He emphasized that safeguarding students is of utmost importance and requires a joint effort from law enforcement, educational institutions, and the wider community.
As drug peddlers adapt their approaches, the need for educational institutions to provide support systems for students becomes vital. Such resources, including counseling and outreach programs, can empower students to resist the temptations of drug use, particularly as financial independence brings new challenges.
Community awareness campaigns are crucial in informing students and their families about the dangers of drug use and the methods employed by dealers. Creating a culture of open dialogue around drug-related issues is essential to encourage students to seek help if they feel threatened.
The targeting of students by drug dealers in Suva is an urgent matter that requires immediate action. Through collaborative efforts among law enforcement, educational institutions, and community members, a safer environment for young people can be established. Investing in prevention and education will help protect the future of students and foster resilience against the lure of drug abuse.