EMERGING social issues such as teenage pregnancy, HIV and drug abuse are becoming serious concerns in rural communities.
The comment was made by Social Protection Minister Sashi Kiran while speaking during the International Women’s Day celebration at the Labasa Civic Centre.
Ms Kiran said discussions with women in areas such as Bua and Seaqaqa had revealed worrying trends.
“In some of the communities we visited, we were told that teenage pregnancy is still a challenge,” she said.
She said cases of HIV and drug-related problems were also emerging in some rural areas.
“These are new challenges on top of the many issues we already face.”
She said partners and government agencies were conducting assessments and providing support to affected communities.
Despite progress in education, she said some rural girls still struggled to continue their studies because of distance and limited access to opportunities.
“While many girls are doing well in school, some are unable to reach secondary school or tertiary education because of distance and other barriers.”
She said stronger community support systems were needed to help young women and girls overcome these challenges.
