QVS leaders push respect and discipline drive

Respect and discipline will be the cornerstone of leadership at Queen Victoria School (QVS) this year, according to newly inducted head boy Isikeli Bari.

The 19-year-old made it clear that strengthening student conduct is a top priority following concerns about bullying and misconduct.

"Some issues that we need to make sure all are in school, study hard, and win the Dean's, Cokes too. Stress that respect and discipline to there all times," he said during the prefect induction ceremony at Lawaki.

Deputy head boy Tuikilakila Lalabalavu echoed the concern, identifying bullying as a major issue within the boarding school.

"One of the main issues in this school is bullying, especially for senior boys telling the Form 3 to go and wash the clothes," he said.

"For this year, my main priority is to try and decrease the number of bullying cases or even try to stop bullying."

Lalabalavu said prefects have begun closer monitoring of student behaviour, including night patrols in dormitories.

"We've been going around, looking at the students, making sure they are asleep by 9, making sure they're at the right place at the right time," he said.

"It's not good to use drugs, but sometimes you have to think wisely. Think twice before you do something."

Education Minister Aseri Radrodro reinforced the expectations.

"QVS is a drug-free school. This is an expectation, not a request. It's non-negotiable," Mr Radrodro said.

Sixty-three prefects were inducted as the Tailevu boarding school begins the year with a renewed focus on restoring discipline and upholding its long-standing standards.