Education Minister Aseri Radrodro has raised concerns over the delayed reporting of a serious bullying and assault incident at Queen Victoria School, warning that failures to report incidents promptly undermine efforts to protect students.
The Ministry of Education confirmed that 58 students were involved in the incident, including 37 Year 11 students and 21 Year 13 students from Verata House.
Mr Radrodro said information from concerned parents and media reports prompted his office to seek further details from the school.
“Any failure to report serious incidents promptly undermines the ministry’s ability to respond effectively and protect students,” he said.
He stressed that bullying, intimidation, physical assault and violence had no place in schools.
“Violence against students is unacceptable and cannot be justified as a means of discipline.”
He said the ministry had since engaged with school management and relevant authorities, while awareness sessions involving the Fiji Police Force were conducted to address student conduct, bullying prevention and child protection.
He said alternative arrangements have been made for the 21 Year 13 students, who are scheduled to sit their external examinations next week.
