Students at Queen Victoria School (QVS) initiated a hunger strike on April 14, 1992, in response to an alleged incident in which the acting principal reportedly assaulted a third-form student. This event occurred shortly before the school’s early holiday closure, ordered by the Ministry of Education. The students’ dissatisfaction culminated in both a boycott of classes and the hunger strike, which they vowed to continue until the principal was removed from his position.
The situation escalated after students disclosed claims that the acting principal acted aggressively, with accusations suggesting that he might have been under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident. Tevita Vakalalabure, the head boy, recounted that the acting principal punched a student after directing him to turn off a study light during bedtime, an act of violence reportedly not isolated to this occurrence. Vakalalabure claimed that the principal had a history of similar assaults on multiple students.
To underscore their demands, students engaged in organizational efforts, including a warning to teachers regarding their presence around the school grounds and sought the support of parents and the broader community to stand against the acting principal’s conduct. They articulated concerns about the impact such behavior had on their education and the school’s reputation for fostering future leaders.
In a neighboring story, allegations of bullying and substance abuse have also plagued QVS, prompting calls from influential alumni, including Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka, for a thorough investigation into these serious issues. Rabuka and other officials are advocating for a renewed focus on improving the school’s culture and disciplinary measures as they reflect on the environment and experiences reported by current and former students.
While the circumstances surrounding the hunger strike and recent allegations are troubling, there is a sense of hope as working towards transparency and accountability may lead to necessary changes that enhance the safety and educational experience for all students at QVS. The proactive involvement of alumni and the community indicates a collective desire to uphold the school’s legacy of nurturing leadership and integrity among its students.
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