Two schools in the Suva-Nausori corridor have come under the spotlight after students were caught with drugs and alcohol.

Five students from prominent Suva school Jai Narayan College were suspended after being found in possession of dried leaves which is believed to be marijuana.

The matter came to light after two students were caught smoking in the toilet. Further interrogation led to a search where more dried leaves were discovered.

The Ministry of Education has confirmed that the matter was referred to the Police as their policy on the matter directed them.

The school has not commented on the matter.

Two weeks ago, Police officers from Valelevu were called to the Assemblies of Gods High School in Nasinu as Year 10 students were allegedly consuming alcohol in school premises.

Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that Police officers from Valelevu had called in the parents of the students involved and counselled the students.

According to data compiled by the National Substance Advisory Council, in 2018, 1,634 cases of drugs and substance abuse were recorded in schools.

There were 417 cases in primary schools and 1217 in secondary schools.

There were 738 cases where students were smoking cigarettes, 301 of sniffing inhalants and 118 of marijuana use.

273 cases of alcohol and 193 of kava consumption were also recorded.

Questions have been sent to the Ministry of Education in regards to dealing with substance abuse in schools.

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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