‘No Child Should Be Born Into Isolation’

Minister for Women, Children and Social Protection Sashi Kiran has described the discovery of a newborn baby at a tertiary hostel in Lautoka on Sunday morning as "heartbreaking."

According to initial reports, a student heard the infant crying in the hostel washroom and, with the help of staff, rushed the baby to Lautoka Aspen Hospital. The newborn remains in good health and under medical care.

Ms Kiran confirmed that social welfare officers are now working closely with Police and health officials to ensure the child receives immediate care and long-term protection.

“The wellbeing of the child is our immediate priority,” she said.

“Many of these cases go unnoticed until it is too late—often due to silence, fear, or lack of awareness.”

She stressed the need for open communication in families to prevent such incidents.

“Prevention starts at home. Parents and guardians play a critical role in shaping their children’s values and decisions,” she said.

“Have open and honest conversations about relationships, respect, and responsibility. Be present. Listen. Guide them with love and without judgment."

“No child should be born into isolation. No young girl should ever feel that hiding a pregnancy or abandoning her baby is her only option. To parents: Be present. Be open. Be involved. To society: Respond with care. Support with understanding.”

Permanent Secretary for Health Dr Jemesa Tudravu echoed the call for greater support for young mothers, encouraging early engagement with healthcare services.

“We want young mothers in Fiji to know that the Ministry of Health is here to support them throughout pregnancy,” Dr Tudravu said.

“Book early so we can help ensure a safe delivery and a healthy baby.”

Community and faith leaders also reacted with concern.

Tama Kwong, treasurer of the Catholic Women’s League (West), said: “It’s heartbreaking to see young women go through this.”

Healing Hands Foundation founder Mohenesh Singh added: “People have forgotten to value human life. How did a newborn end up in a hostel washroom? Our religious leaders must become more effective with their preaching.”

Swami Vivekananda College Ex-Scholars Association chairman Vineel Nand said society needs to change its mindset.

“If a young woman becomes pregnant, she should not be judged. We need better counselling and a clear social media policy to protect our youths.”

Police spokesperson Ana Naisoro confirmed that investigations are ongoing and the identity of the baby’s mother remains unknown.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 919 or the Western Division Command Centre on 9905 457.