A total of 3627 students were involved in drug-related cases last year.
According to Education Minister Aseri Radrodro, this accounted for 1.7 per cent of the total school population.
Speaking in Parliament on Tuesday, he said the ministry was concerned about the rising trend in drug-related incidents, bullying, truancy and other social issues affecting school students across the country.
“While only 1.7 per cent of the students are involved in drug related incidents, mainly involving tobacco products like suki and cigarettes, the ministry remains concerned about the rising trend from 2020 to 2023, with 3627 cases in 2023,” Mr Radrodro said.
“In response, the ministry, in collaboration with the National Substance Abuse Advisory Council and other stakeholders, continues to conduct annual awareness program, and is prioritising the reengagement of school chaplains to address social issues such as drugs, truancy, bullying and teenage pregnancy.”
Mr Radrodro also highlighted an increase in the number of students enrolled across the country from early childhood education (ECE), primary to secondary levels.
“The total number of students currently enrolled in schools from ECE, primary and secondary school numbering around 242,959 as compared to 239,843 last year, an increase of 3116 students enrolled.
“This shows that children are coming to school, and we hope and pray that most students will continue to be enrolled with this 2025-2026 budget.”
Mr Radrodro said they were building a resilient education system that is resistant to climate change, termite-proof, drug free, “and we are empowering every child to access quality education through this budget.”
