WITH concerns continuing over the impact of drugs on young people, the Suva District Church has turned to structured community activities to keep youths engaged and away from harmful influences.
More than 50 youths took part in a clean-up and outreach program organised by the All-Nations Christian Fellowship yesterday, marking the start of a monthly initiative focused on youth prevention and community responsibility.
Senior pastor for the Suva district, Etonia Bose said the program was designed to directly address the growing threat drugs posed to communities.
“The primary motivation for this initiative is to support the community and the government in fighting the war on drugs and criminal activities,” Mr Bose said.
He said involving young people in meaningful work helped redirect their focus from negative influences.
“By involving them in this work, we are keeping them engaged and focused on positive responsibility rather than allowing them to be influenced by drugs or crime.”
The program began with community clean-up activities in the morning before moving into evangelism and outreach sessions in the afternoon.
Mr Bose said the church spent the past two years developing counselling programs to address social issues affecting young people, including drug use, teenage pregnancy and family challenges.
“Our youth are the generation that will eventually lead our country, our schools and our organisations.
“We want to ensure they have a clear mindset regarding their responsibilities. If we do not engage young people early and positively, the problem will continue to grow.”
