Concerns over rising student violence have been highlighted with 33,058 violence-related cases recorded in the Nausori area in 2025, as the Government yesterday opened a new Student Support Services Hub aimed at early intervention and prevention.
The Hub was officially opened at Sila Central High School by Minister Aseri Radrodro, marking the fifth Student Support Services Hub established nationwide, with more expected to be rolled out this year.
Fully funded by the Australian Government through a $45,000 refurbishment, the Hub provides a safe, confidential and fully equipped space where students can access professional counselling.
The Ministry of Education provides the facility and a dedicated counsellor to ensure ongoing support.
Mr Radrodro said timely access to professional help was critical, particularly in light of disciplinary data showing violence accounts for 16 per cent of reported student cases in Nausori.
“Professional support at the right time can prevent small problems from becoming serious ones,” he said.
The Hub will serve students from Tailevu, Rewa and Naitasiri, offering psychosocial support, guidance and referrals to specialist services where required.
It also supports key national frameworks, including the Fiji National Drug Policy, the Child Protection Policy in Schools and the National Substance Abuse Advisory Council framework.
“This is not just the opening of a building,” Mr Radrodro said.
“It is a safe and confidential space where students can speak openly about what they are going through.”
In addition to 33,058 violence cases, 2025 statistics show 3,143 drug-related cases, 1,024 sexual-related cases, and 248 social media-related issues were recorded in Nausori schools last year.
Students, teachers and parents have welcomed the initiative, with feedback indicating counselling is increasingly viewed as support rather than punishment. The Hub strengthens prevention, early intervention and recovery efforts, ensuring vulnerable students receive help before issues escalate.
