Officers from the Ministry of Women, Children, and Social Protection are collaborating with the Fiji Police Force and health authorities to ensure that a newborn baby, who was abandoned in a hostel washroom at a tertiary institution in Lautoka, receives the necessary care and protection. Minister Sashi Kiran expressed her sadness regarding the incident, noting that it highlights the challenges young people face today and emphasizes the need for a united response from all sectors of society.
Kiran stated, “The wellbeing of the child is our immediate priority,” stressing that the incident reflects a growing issue of young individuals encountering unexpected pregnancies without proper support, guidance, or medical understanding. Many such cases often go unnoticed due to fear, shame, or a lack of awareness.
She underscored the importance of open conversations about relationships, respect, and responsibility, urging parents and guardians to actively engage with their children. “When children feel safe and supported at home, they are more likely to seek help, ask questions, and make informed choices,” Kiran remarked. Furthermore, she pointed out that this issue cannot be viewed merely as a family concern but as a national one, requiring involvement from communities, schools, religious institutions, and the government.
The Ministry plans to strengthen child protection services, expand youth counseling, and enhance parenting education. This collective effort aims to implement key laws safeguarding the rights and wellbeing of children and young people. Kiran’s remarks serve as a powerful call for compassion and shared responsibility, making clear that no child should feel isolated or, worse, abandon a baby due to a lack of options.
Moreover, the sentiment in the community suggests a growing awareness and proactive measures to address such heart-wrenching circumstances. Previous incidents of abandoned infants have raised significant concerns about child welfare, indicating an urgent need for improved awareness and support systems. The response from the Ministry and the call for open dialogue hopes to foster a more supportive environment for vulnerable individuals, ensuring that tragedies like this can be minimized in the future.
This commitment from authorities and the community provides an optimistic outlook, as efforts are underway to create a safer environment for all children, striving for a collective responsibility that ensures no young person feels they must face such overwhelming challenges alone.
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