Police are currently investigating a viral video that appears to show a student from Swami Vivekananda College (SVC) confronting another individual with a weapon at the Nadi Bus Stand.
The incident has raised significant concerns among alumni and the bus association, prompting calls for concerted efforts from relevant stakeholders to prevent recurrences.
The video, which emerged on Monday, depicts the student in his school uniform seemingly confronting and assaulting another person.
Rohit Latchan, general secretary of the Fiji Bus Operators Association, stressed the importance of collaboration among stakeholders to avert such incidents in the future.
“It’s an unfortunate incident. The safety of passengers and drivers, including those in and out of the bus, is paramount,” Latchan said. “Stakeholders such as police and education need to collaborate to ensure such incidents do not happen.”
Police spokesperson Wame Bautolu confirmed the investigation, stating, “A video in circulation on social media where a student and another individual are involved in a fight at the Nadi Bus Stand is being investigated.”
He added that police in Nadi had received two assault reports, one from the student’s parents and another from the individual involved.
SVC school manager Swami Bhadreshananda mentioned that the school management has convened to discuss the incident and is awaiting guidance from the Ministry of Education.
School principal Rajesh Krishna echoed this sentiment, stating, “The matter is with police. We are also waiting for the ministry to decide what action to be taken.”
Kesaia Koto, an SVC alumna, voiced concern over the impact of the incident on the school’s reputation.
“The school is well-known for building noble characters, and such incidents undermine its reputation,” she said. “We are not proud of the video. Current students need to understand the school has been thriving for many years. Let’s not be children who throw tantrums when we don’t get our way.”
Permanent Secretary for Education Selina Kuruleca confirmed that the incident occurred two weeks ago and said, “I’m waiting for the report from the divisional education officer West. The senior education advisor has been asked to verify all information. We’ll provide counseling support to the student and meet with the parents.”
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