Editorial: Crisis In Our Classrooms
Let's get into action! The alarming increase in student drug cases needs urgent community and Government intervention.
Friday 17 May 2024 | 08:30
Two students, one from Lautoka, the other from Nausori, were arrested after they were allegedly found in possession of illicit drugs in the school premises over the past week.
Last year, the revelation that 3500 drug cases involving children - in the Central Division alone - were recorded within school compounds in Fiji is deeply alarming.
This figure translates to nearly 10 incidents per day, underscoring the urgent need to address this growing crisis. The pervasive presence of drugs in schools, places meant to be safe havens for learning and growth, signals a broader societal issue that demands immediate and multifaceted intervention.
The Substance Abuse Advisory Council's data high-lights a concerning trend an increase from 2400 cases in 2021 to 2800 in 2022 (a 16 per cent increase), culminating in last year's distressing numbers.
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These statistics indicate our children are not only exposed to, but are actively consuming harmful substances, including cigarettes and kava.
Peer pressure is identified as a significant factor driving this behaviour, as noted by the Substance Abuse Advisory Council's acting director, Joshua Naisele.
The Central Division, from Suva to Nausori, reports the highest incidence rates, pointing to regional disparities that must be addressed.
Efforts by the council to involve student leaders in combating this issue are commendable.
Using peer influence in a positive manner can create an environment where students feel understood and supported.
This approach, coupled with counselling sessions, can help identify the underlying causes of drug use among children.
Moreover, the collaboration between the Fiji Police Force and schools, exemplified by the Blue Light Programme, offers a proactive strategy.
By providing youths with positive lifestyle alternatives and preventing them from becoming offenders or victims of crime, this initiative represents a promising step forward.
The Government's forthcoming anti-narcotics strategy, set to be published in July, is another critical component.
This comprehensive plan aims to reduce demand, control supply, and promote harm reduction and legal reform.
Community engagement and thorough research, as advocated by Drug Free World Fiji founder, Kalisi Volatabu, are essential for understanding and addressing the root causes of drug use among youths. To effectively combat this issue, we can also look to successful global examples for inspiration:
Feedback: naisak@fijisun.com.fj
