It is encouraging to know that parents and guardians have been issued a strong warning as thousands of students converge on Suva for the three-day annual Fiji athletics finals which gets underway at the National Stadium tomorrow.
Families are being reminded about the growing risks associated with drug exposure and unsupervised accommodation in the Capital City.
National Substance Abuse Advisory Council acting chief executive Josua Naisele has cautioned that the influx of students into Suva creates a high-risk environment, and is urging families to take extra precautions.
He emphasised the need for parents to know where their children will be staying, especially in the wake of reports of students arranging short-term rentals and hotel bookings.
Unsupervised accommodation, he noted, can leave students exposed to unsafe behaviour and illicit activity, a warning that has been circulated among schools.
Understandably, questions will be raised about how and why such situations are arising. Given the heightened focus on the fight against drugs and recent developments in and around the city, there will undoubtedly be concerns about student safety.
Mr Naisele has also highlighted reports of students being targeted by drug dealers, with police already recording cases involving youths found in possession of illicit substances. In the face of that backdrop, students are being urged to steer clear of any involvement with drugs, whether as users or intermediaries.
Parents and guardians have also been reminded that the Fiji Police Force and Republic of Fiji Military Forces have ramped up operations in Suva, targeting drug-related activities during this period.
They are encouraged to ensure their children travel with trusted companions, share contact details, and maintain communication throughout their stay.
Teachers accompanying students have also been urged to remain alert and proactive in supervising those under their care.
With multiple sporting events taking place around the country, Mr Naisele stressed that safety must remain the top priority, and is calling on families to stay vigilant and put the wellbeing of their children first. Last year, the NSAAC recorded 32 drug-related cases, including incidents involving marijuana and methamphetamine. At a recent consultation, teachers expressed concern about the growing prevalence of drug use among students, warning that the problem is now reaching primary school level. This is serious. For those with loved ones travelling to Suva, we should be heeding these warnings.
Be proactive. Talk openly with your children about the dangers of illicit drugs and the long-term consequences of addiction.
Let us not lose sight of what the Fiji Finals represent.
This is a celebration of youth, talent, and tradition. The action will unfold on the track and field, where determination, discipline, and dreams take centre stage.
For our young athletes, this is a defining moment. It is an opportunity to test themselves against the best in the country and to chase their hopes and aspirations.
Thousands will gather at the Laucala Bowl, driven by passion and the hope of leaving their mark.
So, let’s ensure this iconic event remains memorable for the right reasons.
Let’s enjoy the games. Let’s celebrate the spirit of competition, and let’s stay safe.
