Tackling Fiji’s Hidden Crises: Insights from the Great Council of Chiefs

During the concluding day of the Great Council of Chiefs (GCC) meeting, pressing issues such as violence against women, drug use, and school dropouts were highlighted as significant concerns impacting the iTaukei community. GCC chair Ratu Viliame Seruvakula emphasized the need for proactive measures in addressing these societal problems, particularly as Fiji has alarmingly high rates of domestic violence.

Ratu Viliame acknowledged the emotional testimonies shared by council members regarding the urgency of tackling violence against women. He noted that the council is committed to taking decisive action on these matters moving forward. Additionally, the emergence of drug issues among school-aged children was flagged as particularly troubling, further compounded by the rising rate of school dropouts.

The statistics presented on educational attainment show a stark contrast between iTaukei students and other ethnic groups, with only 30% of iTaukei students graduating from medical school compared to 60% from other backgrounds. Ratu Viliame posited that fostering a sense of community and mutual support can be a vital solution to these challenges, advocating for a communal upbringing that empowers children to become independent and responsible adults.

To cultivate an environment of accountability and encouragement, he expressed the importance of instilling values of compassion and togetherness in the youth. By supporting one another, the iTaukei community can work towards building a brighter future.

Overall, the discussions reflect a commitment to addressing these significant issues, and there is hope that collaborative efforts will lead to meaningful change within the community.

In summary, the Great Council of Chiefs meeting focused on critical social challenges facing the iTaukei community, urging collective action to combat domestic violence, substance abuse, and educational disparities while promoting a cooperative approach to youth development. The conversation sparked a sense of optimism for positive communal solutions.