Girls on the Frontline: Drug Crisis Reaches Schools

The Ministry of Education is concerned about the growing number of girls found in possession of illicit drugs or reported to be "high" in school.

According to the ministry's Substance Abuse, Alcohol and Other Drugs Counsellor, Vilisimani Rakikau, this year alone, about 10 girls at one prominent high school were referred to the ministry after being found under the influence or in possession of drugs.

This disturbing trend has been prominent in the Central Division. Mr Rakikau stressed that, while boys are often stereotypically linked to drug use, the increase in drug-related incidents involving girls was now undeniable.

"When we receive such reports, we direct severe cases to the police, while also providing counselling to the students," he said.

"Head of Schools (HOS) contact us immediately when they identify such issues, and we respond quickly."

Although Mr Rakikau did not provide specific statistics, he described the situation as alarming and a significant national concern.

The recent rise in drug-related issues among youth has presented a grim reality for the country.

Despite a relatively low number of juvenile offenders from 2019 to 2023, with the highest number being in the 18 to 35 age group, this new trend concerning school-aged children signals a worrying shift.

Assistant Commissioner of Police Sakeo Raikaci noted that the 18 to 35 age group consistently reported the most offenders, peaking at 1004 in 2020 and 1001 in 2023.

In addition, the ministry has received disturbing reports of primary school students being used as "runners" for drug delivery.

Mr Rakikau recounted a case from last year where a year two student unknowingly delivered drugs to a suspect, only to have the police intercept the transaction.

The child's parents allegedly packed the drugs in the child's lunchbox, instructing them to wait outside the school for the pick-up.

As the festive season approaches, Mr Rakikau has urged parents and guardians to be vigilant.

"I plead with all parents and guardians to know where your children are. It's no longer safe," he warned.

Fiji Police Force Director of Community Policing Senior Superintendent

Salanieta Radaniva echoed this, urging parents to recognise their responsibilities, especially during school breaks.

"Children are always safest when they are at home," she said.

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