Appeal for stronger child protection

A Year 13 student has called for stronger constitutional protections for children and improved civic education during the Constitution Review consultations at Jai Narayan College in Suva yesterday.

Speaking during the review, Suva Sangam School student Seleima Ciriyawa said the 2013 Constitution, as the supreme law of the land, must continue to protect the rights and freedoms of all citizens, including children.

Seleima said freedom of speech was an important constitutional right, allowing people to express their opinions while ensuring they respect the Constitution and support their views with evidence.

“Children must be protected from abuse, neglect, violence, harmful practices, and harsh punishment,” she said.

“Any form of violence against children goes against their rights and called for greater awareness and protection measures.”

She also spoke on the importance of maintaining the voting age, saying it allows citizens to participate in decision-making and strengthens civic responsibility.

Seleima said stronger civic education was needed to help young people understand their role in supporting a stable and functioning democratic system.

The Constitution Review at Jay Narayan College allowed students and members of the public to share their views on constitutional issues affecting Fiji.