Help is available for students faced with issues such as teenage pregnancies and the Ministry of Education, Heritage and Arts has urged students not to take drastic steps.

The call comes after a Year 13 student from Adi Cakobau School was admitted at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital after she allegedly gave birth in school last week.

The matter was reported when the dead baby was discovered in school. What cannot be ascertained at this point in time, is whether the child died during birth or after.

According to reports, the teenager who was a boarder at the school, allegedly gave birth in school, had cleaned the dead child and allegedly kept it in a cabinet.

Permanent Secretary Anjeela Jokhan said the ministry was aware of the unfortunate incident that involved a Year 13 student.

She said the student was in a stable condition and under the care of medical professionals.

“Teenage pregnancies continue to be an area of concern for the Ministry and the community at large,” she said.

“The Ministry wishes to advise all students to seek assistance from the Child Protection Officers and Counselors available in their schools, should they find themselves in such situations.

“We also urge Heads of Schools and Teachers to create awareness on teenage pregnancies, drug and sexual abuse in schools to ensure children are not only aware of the consequences but also aware of the support services available to them.”

Ms Jokhan said the Ministry encouraged students to use the Child Helpline initiated by the Ministry of Women, Children and Poverty Alleviation on 1325.

She reiterated that parents needed to be more engaged and involved in their children’s lives and welfare and continued to provide family support.

Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro said an investigation was underway and confirmed the student was in hospital.

She said the police were awaiting post mortem examination of the child and a doctor’s report.

Director Social Welfare Rupeni Fatiaki said the matter was yet to be reported to them.

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