Alcohol and drug offenses among primary school students have surged significantly over the past three years, according to Josua Naisele, the acting director of the National Substance Abuse Advisory Council. In 2021, there were approximately 385 recorded cases, while the numbers jumped to 1,289 in 2022 and further increased to 1,578 in 2023.
During the 41st Head Teachers Conference in Nadi last week, Naisele highlighted the various substances being abused in schools, including kava, tobacco, suki, alcohol, homebrew, inhalants, marijuana, and hard drugs. He noted that kava, tobacco, and suki are commonly reported in several districts.
Naisele expressed concern about the rising instances of marijuana use among primary school children, warning that early exposure could lead to experimentation with harder drugs like methamphetamine. He explained that as children build a tolerance to drugs, they may seek stronger substances for pleasure.
Students caught using drugs are typically referred for counseling. He indicated that many of those who try marijuana often start with substances like suki, cigarettes, yaqona, or alcohol. Naisele urged parents to refrain from encouraging their children to use such substances, as one drug can lead to the temptation to try others.
While methamphetamine cases have only been reported in secondary schools, he acknowledged that the growing trend poses significant challenges. He emphasized the need for schools to take proactive measures to protect children from the dangers of drug abuse.