The Fiji Women’s Rights Movement (FWRM) has underscored the urgent need for comprehensive, age-appropriate sexuality education in schools amid rising HIV infection rates in the country. FWRM Executive Director Nalini Singh made her remarks following alarming statistics revealed by the Minister of Health, Atonio Lalabalavu, indicating a significant increase in HIV cases.

Singh articulated the need to dismantle the taboos surrounding sexual and reproductive health, emphasizing the reality that children are engaging in sexual activity. “What can we do to prevent them from making decisions that will impact their health and livelihoods for the rest of their lives?” she asked, stressing the importance of educational initiatives around bodily autonomy, safe spaces, consent, and promoting respectful relationships.

This plea for action comes on the heels of the Health Minister’s announcement of an HIV outbreak, reminding the public of the importance of urgent measures in improving sexual health education for young people. Research indicates that comprehensive sexual health education can greatly enhance knowledge and attitudes surrounding sexual health and behavior among youth, potentially leading to healthier decisions and outcomes.

Singh has consistently advocated for the incorporation of sexual health education in school curricula, supported by data showing concerning trends in adolescent pregnancy and early sexual activity. According to a report titled “Putting Data and Evidence into Action: An Intersectional Profile of Adolescent Pregnancy and Motherhood in Fiji,” the adolescent fertility rate rose sharply from 2016 to 2019 among both iTaukei and non-iTaukei mothers. Specifically, the rate increased from 30 to 38 births per 1,000 among iTaukei mothers and from 19 to 24 births per 1,000 among their non-iTaukei counterparts.

The call for immediate action and reform reflects a hope that education will empower future generations, mitigate health risks, and develop a more informed society that actively addresses sexual health matters. Engaging to break down these issues can lead to a healthier, more resilient community moving forward.