More than 3,000 students found with drugs on school premises
Education Ministry says most reported cases involved suki, cigarettes, vaping, alcohol, glue and marijuana.
Friday 21 August 2026 | 18:00
Minister for Education Aseri Radrodro outside Parliament.
Photo: Parliament of Fiji
More than 3,000 students were found in possession of drugs on school premises in 2025, according to Education Minister Aseri Radrodro.
The 3,143 cases were higher than the 3,041 recorded in 2024, but lower than the 3,627 reported in 2023.
Of the total, 1,635 were secondary school students and 1,508 were primary school students.
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Mr Radrodro revealed the figures in response to a written question from Opposition MP Hem Chand today.
He said the rise in reported cases was linked to Counselling Hubs opened between 2023 and 2025 at Natabua High School, Labasa College, Levuka Public School and Nasinu Secondary School.
"Most of the cases in schools are formally reported to the Counselling Hubs from school as compared to previous years which were referred to Substance Abuse Advisory Council office," the response stated.
The Ministry said less than two per cent of students nationwide were involved in drug-related cases, mostly involving suki, cigarettes, vaping, alcohol, inhalant glue and marijuana.
No methamphetamine cases were recorded in schools.
The Ministry said it works under the School Drugs Policy, Child Protection Policy, Behaviour Management Policy and Counselling Policy to guide teachers.
It also collaborates with parents, Police, health authorities, the Child Welfare Unit, communities and faith-based organisations, offering psychosocial support, counselling and mentoring to affected students.
Preventive training for teachers, student leaders and faith-based leaders continues in schools and communities, the Ministry said.
